Surprising Reasons for Pre Natal Bleeding and What to Do About It

Pre-natal bleeding is never a pleasant experience for pregnant women. It can be caused by a variety of factors and can be a sign of significant problems during pregnancy. If you are pregnant and experienced unexpected bleeding, you are not alone. In fact, one in four pregnant women experience bleeding during their pregnancy. While some causes of pre-natal bleeding can be serious, others are less so and can be treated. In this article, we will explore surprising reasons for pre-natal bleeding and what to do about it.

Implantation Bleeding:

Implantation bleeding is a common cause of early bleeding during pregnancy. This can occur when the fertilized egg attaches itself to the lining of the uterus, which causes a small amount of bleeding. Implantation bleeding typically occurs around six to twelve days after fertilization and is usually light, spotting for several hours. If you experience implantation bleeding, there is no need to panic as it is harmless and does not pose a risk to your pregnancy.

Miscarriage:

One of the most alarming reasons for pre-natal bleeding is miscarriage. Miscarriage is the loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week. Miscarriage is a heartbreaking experience and can be caused by a variety of factors such as chromosomal abnormalities or maternal health issues. Symptoms of miscarriage include heavy vaginal bleeding, cramping, and the passing of tissue or clot-like fragments. If you experience these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately.

Ectopic Pregnancy:

An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the fertilized egg implants itself outside of the uterus, often in the Fallopian tube. Ectopic pregnancy is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy include vaginal bleeding, sharp abdominal pain, and shoulder pain. If you suspect you may have an ectopic pregnancy, you should seek medical attention immediately.

Placental Abruption:

Placental abruption is a condition that can occur when the placenta partially or completely separates from the uterine wall before delivery. Placental abruption can cause severe bleeding and can pose a risk to both the mother and the developing fetus. Symptoms of placental abruption include sudden and severe vaginal bleeding, abdominal pain, and contractions. You should seek medical care immediately if you suspect you may be experiencing placental abruption.

Infections:

Infections such as urinary tract infection (UTI) or sexually transmitted infection (STI) can cause pre-natal bleeding. UTI during pregnancy can lead to more severe infections such as kidney infection which can cause bleeding. STIs such as chlamydia or gonorrhea can cause bleeding in the cervix which can pass through to the vagina. These infections are treated with antibiotics.

In conclusion, pre-natal bleeding can be a cause of worry for pregnant women and their families. However, it is crucial to understand that bleeding can have various causes, some of which can pose a risk to the pregnancy. Therefore, it is crucial that women immediately seek medical attention when they experience any abnormal bleeding. Early intervention can help prevent potential pregnancy complications and ensure that pregnancies are healthy and safe.