Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy: What's it, causes, symptoms, diagnostics, treatment, prevention

Vaginal bleeding in pregnancy; Pregnancy – vaginal bleeding; Maternal blood loss – vaginal

Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy: What it is?

Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy – This State, when a pregnant woman experiences bleeding from the vagina. This can be a warning sign of possible problems during pregnancy and requires attention and consultation with a doctor..

Causes of vaginal bleeding during pregnancy

There are several possible causes of vaginal bleeding during pregnancy., and each requires attention and evaluation from the doctor. Some causes of vaginal bleeding during pregnancy may include:

1. Early pregnancy: In some cases, vaginal bleeding can be caused by an ectopic pregnancy or problems with early pregnancy., such as placental abruption or threatened miscarriage.
2. Late pregnancy: Vaginal bleeding in the later stages of pregnancy may be caused by problems with the placenta, such as placenta previa or delivery of the placenta before term.
3. Infection: Certain infections, such as vaginal infections or urinary tract infections, can cause vaginal bleeding.
4. Cervical injury: Vaginal bleeding can be caused by damage to the cervix from sexual contact or other physical abuse..

In 1 from 4 women experience vaginal bleeding during pregnancy. Bleeding is more common in the first 3 of the month (first trimester), especially in twins.

10-14 days after conception, you may notice a small amount of light spotting or bleeding. This arises because, that the fertilized egg attaches to the lining of the uterus. Expected, that in this case, most often there is nothing to worry about.

For the first 3 months, vaginal bleeding may be a sign of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy. In this case, contact your doctor immediately.

In the period with 4 by 9 a month of bleeding may be a sign:

• The placenta separates from the inner wall of the uterus before the baby is born (placental abruption).
• Miscarriage
• Placenta, covering all or part of the opening of the cervix (placenta previa)
• Vasa previa (the baby's blood vessels are exposed across or near the internal opening of the uterus)

Symptoms of vaginal bleeding during pregnancy

The main symptom of vaginal bleeding during pregnancy is the discharge of blood from the vagina of a pregnant woman.. Symptoms may vary depending on the cause and extent of the bleeding., and include:

• Discharge of light red or dark brown blood from the vagina;
• Blood clots in secretions;
• Pain in the lower abdomen or lower back;
• Change in bleeding intensity (increase or decrease).

When to see a doctor

Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy is a potentially serious condition and should be evaluated by a doctor. The following cases are urgent and require immediate medical attention:

• Bleeding is profuse or continues for more than 24 hours;
• Bleeding is accompanied by acute pain in the lower abdomen or lower back;
• you feel weak, dizziness or loss of consciousness;
• You experience severe cramping pain or pressure in your lower abdomen;
• You know, that you are at risk of termination of pregnancy or other complications.

But, even if the bleeding seems to be light or has stopped, you should still contact your doctor for a checkup and consultation.

Questions, which the doctor may ask

When contacting a doctor with vaginal bleeding during pregnancy, the doctor may ask you some questions, to clarify the situation and get complete information about your condition. Some of the possible questions might include:

1. When did the bleeding start and how long does it last??
2. What is the intensity and color of bleeding?
3. Whether the bleeding is accompanied by any pain or other symptoms?
4. Have you previously had problems with pregnancy or childbirth?
5. Have you had problems with the placenta or infections before?

Diagnosis of vaginal bleeding during pregnancy

Diagnosis of vaginal bleeding during pregnancy begins with a doctor's examination and medical history.. The doctor may perform a physical examination and recommend additional tests., such as:

1. US (ultrasound examination): Ultrasound helps to visualize the condition of the uterus, placenta and fetus, and can identify possible causes of bleeding.
2. Blood tests: Blood tests can help assess hormone levels, check for infection or determine the cause of the bleeding.
3. Seeding secretions: If infection is suspected, the doctor may take a sample of the discharge for further analysis.

Treatment of vaginal bleeding during pregnancy

Treatment for vaginal bleeding during pregnancy depends on the cause and extent of the bleeding.. In cases of urgent conditions, such as ectopic pregnancy or placental abruption, may require immediate treatment or even surgery. Otherwise, Treatment may include:

1. Rest and limitation of physical activity.
2. Medical therapy to support pregnancy or correct the cause of the bleeding, such as progesterone drugs or antibiotics for infections.
3. Surgery if needed, eg, with placenta previa.

Home Treatment

Treatment of vaginal bleeding during pregnancy at home is not recommended. In case of vaginal bleeding during pregnancy, you should always consult a doctor for evaluation and advice., because it could be a sign of serious problems, requiring medical intervention or supervision.

Prevention of vaginal bleeding during pregnancy

Despite, that some cases of vaginal bleeding during pregnancy cannot be prevented, there are some measures, which can help reduce the risk of problems.

1. Regular visits to the doctor: Regular visits to the doctor throughout the pregnancy will help to identify and control possible problems..
2. Compliance with recommendations for a healthy lifestyle: Healthy eating, physical activity, stress avoidance, renunciation of bad habits – these are all important aspects of maintaining health during pregnancy.
3. Avoidance of physical stress and overexertion: Try to avoid heavy physical exertion and excessive stress, especially in the first and third trimesters of pregnancy.
4. Gentle sexual intercourse: In some cases, sexual intercourse can cause damage to the cervix and bleeding, so be careful and see a doctor, if you have any problems.

It is important to remember, that every pregnancy is different, and consultation with a physician is the most trusted source of information and advice on preventing vaginal bleeding and overall well-being during pregnancy.

Remember, that each case requires an individual approach and medical evaluation. Keep your pregnancy and health under the supervision of a qualified doctor.

Used sources and literature

Francois KE, Foley MR. Antepartum and postpartum hemorrhage. In: Landon MB, Galan HL, Junior ERM, et al, eds. Gabbe’s Obstetrics: Normal and Problem Pregnancies. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 18.

Salhi is not, Nagrani S. Acute complications in pregnancy. In: Walls RM, Hockberger RS, Gausche-Hill M, eds. Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2018:chap 178.

Turocy J, Williams Z. Early and recurrent pregnancy loss: etiology, diagnosis, treatment. In: Gershenson DM, Lentz GM, Crazy FOUR, Lobo RA, eds. Comprehensive Gynecology. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2022:chap 16.