What Is an Early Pregnancy Period?

Sometimes during the beginning of your pregnancy, you may bleed. Even though it might seem like a "pregnancy period," it is not a period if you are pregnant. Bleeding in the first half of the pregnancy is common, with 20 to 30 percent of women experiencing it, according to the American Pregnancy Association.

Period

When you are pregnant, your brain sends signals to the uterus to not have a period, according to Epigee Women's Health. Light bleeding is common and does not necessarily mean a miscarriage.

Causes

Though miscarriage is a possibility, there are other reasons for light bleeding. Implantation bleeding, infection in the urinary tract or pelvic cavity or irritation from intercourse can all be possible causes of this light bleeding.

Warning Signs

Signs of miscarriage include vaginal bleeding, strong lower abdominal cramps and passing tissue through the vagina. It is possible that the bleeding is because of an ectopic or molar pregnancy, so if you feel any sharp pains or more bleeding than spotting, consult your doctor.

Things to Remember

Wear a pad or panty liner if you are spotting to monitor the amount, color and type of bleeding. If you are bleeding, do not put anything in the vaginal area, such a douche, or have intercourse because that could irritate the cervix further.

Timing

Pregnancy bleeding in the first trimester is common and does not necessarily mean complications. Bleeding in the second or third trimester, however, can be a sign of problems, according to the American Pregnancy Association.

References

• American Pregnancy Association
• Epigee Women's Health