How to Identify Pregnancy Bleeding

By Nicole Harms

Rate: (0 Ratings)

Bleeding during pregnancy is never something a woman wants to experience. While some types of pregnancy bleeding are completely normal and harmless, most episodes of bleeding do warrant a call to the doctor. Only your obstetrician can determine whether or not the bleeding is a cause for concern. However, there are some signs you can look for to set your mind at ease while you wait to get in to your doctor’s office if you are experiencing bleeding during pregnancy.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

  • Pads

Step1
Consider whether or not the bleeding could be implantation bleeding. While most women do not know they are pregnant when they experience implantation bleeding, some do. This pregnancy bleeding occurs when the embryo implants into the uterus, usually around the time the woman is due to get her period. This kind of bleeding is completely normal and harmless.
Step2
Consider whether or not the bleeding is happening in the first trimester. First trimester bleeding is common and usually harmless. However, it can be a sign of miscarriage, so talk to your doctor as soon as you notice it.
Step3
Notice whether or not the blood is getting on your underwear or soaking a pad. Blood that is present on the toilet paper when you wipe is usually not a cause for concern. If it starts to soak into a pad, it is usually an indication that something is wrong.
Step4
Think about any things that could have caused the pregnancy bleeding. During the first trimester, the cervix is very tender. Sex, vaginal exams, or even straining to go to the bathroom can cause some slight bleeding. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have experienced any of this the past few days.
Step5
Notice if you have any cramping and check if any tissue or clots are passing through the vagina. These are signs of a miscarriage and you should call your doctor right away.
Step6
Watch for bleeding in the first trimester that is accompanied by severe abdominal pain. This is a sign of an ectopic or tubal pregnancy, which occurs when the baby implants inside the fallopian tube. This requires medical attention.
Step7
Understand that bleeding during the second or third trimesters is not usually normal. This is often a cause for concern.
Step8
Watch for bleeding in the second trimester. If it is accompanied by pain, it could be placenta abruption, which occurs when the placenta detaches from the uterus. If the bleeding is without pain, it could be a sign of placenta previa, a condition wherein the placenta blocks part of the cervix.
Step9
Understand that bleeding toward the end of pregnancy could indicate that labor is starting.

Tips & Warnings

  • If you are bleeding, wear a pad so you can monitor the amount of blood that is passing.
  • Remember that there is rarely anything that can be done for a miscarriage and there is nothing a mother can do, or not do, to cause or prevent it from occurring.
  • Never try to self-diagnose pregnancy bleeding. Any bleeding during pregnancy is cause for a call to the doctor. The doctor can tell you whether or not it is a problem.
  • Never ignore bleeding during pregnancy. Remember, some conditions can be improved with medical care, and the life of your baby could be at risk!

Post a Comment

POST A COMMENT

Request a New How-To Article

Looking for more How To information? Chances are there’s an eHow member who knows how to do what you’re looking to do. Submit an article request now!

eHow Article: How to Identify Pregnancy Bleeding

eHow Member: Nicole Harms

Nicole Harms

Novice Novice | 0 Points

Category: Health

Articles: See my other articles

Related Ads

Health

DrJewell
Meet DrJewell eHow’s Health Expert.