Bleeding During Pregnancy
Bleeding during pregnancy is not very common, being reported by just 20-30 percent of pregnant women. Most bleeding during pregnancy is harmless and does not require medical attention, especially when it happens during the first trimester. Other times, however, bleeding is a sign that something is not right and immediate medical care is needed, especially if it happens later in the pregnancy.
Bleeding experienced during the second half of a pregnancy can be more serious than the spotting or bleeding that occurs during the first trimester. Most late term bleeding stems from problems with the placenta or the cervix. Here are some common causes of late term bleeding during pregnancy:
Late Term Bleeding During Pregnancy - Placental Abruption
- Caused by the placenta prematurely detaching from the wall of the uterus
- Can happen just before or during labor
- Experienced by just 1 percent of pregnant women
- Symptoms include bleeding and stomach pain
Women who have already had children and are over 35 years old have a higher risk for placental abruption. These situations can also increase risk:
- previous placental abruption
- sickle cell anemia - high blood pressure (140/90 or higher)
- trauma due to accident or injury
- cocaine use
- tobacco use
Late Term Bleeding During Pregnancy - Placenta Previa
- Can happen if the cervix is completely or partially covered by the placenta
- Caused by the stretching and rupturing of blood vessels in the placenta
- Experienced by just 1 in 200 pregnant women
- Cause of about 20 percent of bleeding in final trimester
- Symptoms include bleeding but no pain
Women who have already given birth, had a previous cesarean delivery or a prior placenta previa have a higher risk of experiencing a placenta previa. Other risk factors include other forms of uterine surgery or having twins or triplets.
Late Term Bleeding During Pregnancy - Preterm Labor
Preterm labor refers to labor that happens prior to the full term of pregnancy, or before week 37. Vaginal bleeding may be an indication of preterm labor, and immediate medical attention is required.
Symptoms of preterm labor occur before the 37-week mark and include:
- contractions that are coming regularly
- dull pain in the lower back
- pressure in the pelvic area or lower abdomen
- stomach cramping, which can be accompanied with diarrhea
- tightening of the uterus - vaginal discharge
Bleeding during pregnancy can be an indication of a serious problem with the baby or pregnant mother, and it should always be taken seriously. This is especially important with late term bleeding that happens during the last trimester. In many cases, proper medical care can prevent a tragedy.