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10/17/2008 - by Anne Marie Nielson
  
Bleeding During Pregnancy

Any kind of bleeding during pregnancy can cause fear and trepidation. While it can be frightening, bleeding isn't always a bad sign. In fact, there are several reasons why you may experience bleeding that are benign. Other causes are more serious. It is always good to seek the advice of your doctor or midwife if you notice any signs of bleeding. Your caregiver will be able to diagnose the probable causes and help determine the best course of action.

Implantation
Some women experience a day or two of light spotting about six to ten days after fertilization. It is lighter than a normal period.

Changes to the Cervix
A little bleeding can happen when the cervix is disturbed, since it contains a lot more blood flow during pregnancy. You may notice a little red or brown spotting after a pelvic exam or after sex.

Miscarriage/Ectopic/Molar Pregnancy
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) states that around 15% of all pregnancies end in miscarriage. While bleeding is a primary sign, unless it is accompanied by cramping, it doesn't necessarily mean you will lose the pregnancy. The majority of women who experience bleeding in the first trimester go on to birth full term babies. Ectopic and molar pregnancies may also cause bleeding. Ectopic pregnancies happen when the egg implants outside the uterus, most commonly in the Fallopian tube. Such a pregnancy is a dangerous situation that must be treated as soon as possible. A molar pregnancy is a rare occurrence where the egg does not develop properly due to chromosomal abnormalities.

Infection
There are some infections of the cervix that may cause bleeding in the early stages of pregnancy. Yeast infections, or sexually transmitted infections like herpes, Chlamydia and trichomoniasis can irritate or inflame the cervix. A cervical polyp may also cause bleeding, especially after sex or an exam.

Preterm Labor
In the second or third trimester, light amounts of bleeding, especially when contractions, pelvic pressure or a low backache, may be a sign of impending labor. It is classified as preterm if this occurs before 37 weeks gestation. Preterm labor should be assessed by your care giver or at the hospital, where they may try to stop it if it is too early.

Placenta Previa
This problem occurs when the placenta covers the opening of the cervix, either partially or completely. Bright red bleeding from the vagina is the primary symptom, and it is usually painless. The bleeding may stop and start. A partial previa may eventually move up the uterine wall as the uterus grows if bleeding occurs earlier in the pregnancy, but a complete previa is grounds for a cesarean.

Placental Abruption
Occasionally, something may happen to cause the placenta to start separating from the uterine wall, causing bleeding. The amount may range from a scant amount to very heavy or anywhere in between. An abruption is usually very painful. This is an emergency situation and you should seek immediate medical care.

Uterine Rupture
Occasionally a uterine rupture will occur. This is when the uterus tears open along a previous scar. It may cause intense pain, bleeding and tenderness. When a rupture does happen, it can happen during pregnancy or during labor. Usually cited as the reason to deny a vaginal birth after a cesarean, they are rare.

At From Pregnancy To Baby, we try to provide you with all of the latest information about going through your pregnancy from your first trimester to the first years of your new babies life. We also provide the highest quality books and products to help you through that time.

Source: http://www.frompregnancytobaby.com/Articles/Bleeding-During-Pregnancy.html