When you’re pregnant, you expect your periods to stop, since the egg implanting into the walls of your uterus breaks up the typical monthly cycle that accompanies the non-fertilization of an egg.
While you shouldn’t have any bleeding resembling your normal menstrual flow, there are times when bleeding during pregnancy is normal, as well as times when it’s not. The team at ThriveOB and Women's Wellness in Barrington, Illinois, led by gynecologist Jennifer Moreira, MD, FACOG, wants you to know what to expect during pregnancy.
Spotting is the presence of a few drops of blood in your underwear, on a panty liner, or on toilet paper when you wipe after urination. There’s nothing substantial about the amount of blood, and most women experience occasional spotting often.
Spotting may be red, pink, or brown in color, depending on freshness, dilution with urine, being dried, or other factors. In the first trimester of your pregnancy, spotting is normal and, on its own, is probably not a cause for concern.
Bleeding is the flow of blood. It’s enough for you to use feminine protection products to absorb the flow.
It’s possible to have bleeding in the first trimester. While bleeding and spotting may occur naturally in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, let Dr. Moreira know so she can factor these symptoms into your pregnancy care.
Up to 25% of pregnant women may experience bleeding or spotting in the first trimester. Possible benign causes include:
Problems like ectopic pregnancy and miscarriage can also cause bleeding in the first trimester.
Bleeding or spotting in the second and third trimesters is more likely to result from serious conditions. Contact Dr. Moreira about any instance of bleeding after the 12th week.
Some of the possible causes of bleeding at this stage of pregnancy include:
Non-medical reasons, such as having sex, pelvic exams, ultrasounds, Pap tests, or injuries, may also cause bleeding at any point during pregnancy, though Pap tests are usually done only in the first trimester.
Contact ThriveOB and Women's Wellness any time you notice irregular bleeding or spotting. Call 847-868-2908 to book your appointment today.
