Bleeding during pregnancy – is it dangerous?

Bleeding from the genital tract during pregnancy is always concerning for expectant mothers. It can be associated with a miscarriage or placenta previa, but in many cases, it doesn’t mean anything dangerous. However, it is very important to consult a doctor or visit the emergency room in such a case, regardless of the stage of pregnancy. Here, you will learn about the most common causes of bleeding in early pregnancy and in the second half of pregnancy.

Bleeding in early pregnancy

Many women experience bleeding early in pregnancy. If the bleeding is light and occurs around the expected time of menstruation, it may be implantation bleeding, which is associated with the embryo implanting into the uterine lining. Additionally, bleeding in early pregnancy can also occur due to vaginal infections, after intercourse, or due to an ectopia (erosion) of the cervix. In many cases, no exact cause for the bleeding can be found. However, a gynecologist should always be consulted to carry out the necessary examinations.

A much more serious condition that can cause bleeding in early pregnancy is an ectopic pregnancy. This occurs when a fertilized egg implants in an abnormal location, i.e., outside the uterus. Early detection of an ectopic pregnancy is difficult due to the nonspecific symptoms, which are similar to those of a miscarriage. However, if not treated in time, it can lead to the rupture of the fallopian tube, which could cause shock and put the woman’s life at risk.

Bleeding in the first trimester – miscarriage

Many women worry that bleeding from the genital tract in the first half of pregnancy clearly means a miscarriage. In fact, the first trimester is associated with the highest risk of miscarriage, but the occurrence of spotting or bleeding can also be linked to much less severe causes, as mentioned above. Furthermore, one should not forget about a threatened miscarriage. Even if bleeding occurs, it does not necessarily mean the loss of the pregnancy.

The severity of the bleeding in the case of a miscarriage varies – from light spotting to heavy bleeding. Other symptoms, such as lower abdominal pain or less characteristic symptoms like fever, may also occur. Bleeding during pregnancy should never be underestimated, and a doctor should always be consulted in such an event.

Bleeding in the second half of pregnancy

Bleeding in the second half of pregnancy is most commonly associated with problems related to the placenta. More than half of the cases involve placenta previa or premature placental abruption. These are serious conditions that are dangerous for both the pregnant woman and the baby, requiring hospitalization. Other causes of bleeding in the second half of pregnancy include cervical polyps, bleeding erosions, birth canal injuries, and, during the peripartum period, uterine rupture. It should also be remembered that bleeding can occur due to the onset of labor.

• Placenta previa
  This refers to the implantation of the placenta in the lower segment of the uterus. Most commonly, it covers the internal cervical os. The diagnosis of placenta previa usually occurs in the second half of pregnancy, as the placenta is fully developed at this point. In earlier weeks, placental migration may still be possible. Often, the only symptom is bleeding, which progressively becomes stronger. Pregnant women with placenta previa are under intense obstetric supervision. CTG, ultrasound, and biophysical profile examinations are performed to provide information about the condition of the fetus. Vaginal birth is not possible in cases of placenta previa. Furthermore, an internal examination is contraindicated due to the high risk of bleeding.
• Premature placental abruption
  A situation in which part or all of the placenta detaches from the uterine wall is referred to as premature placental abruption. Symptoms include bleeding from the genital tract, intense abdominal pain, and increased uterine tension. If more than 50% of the placenta detaches, fetal hypoxia can occur, which may even lead to fetal death.

In most cases, neither placenta previa nor premature placental abruption presents contraindications for the collection of umbilical cord blood, tissue, or placental tissue. In a cesarean section, the blood and tissue are collected immediately after birth. Studies show that the volumes collected in vaginal births and cesarean sections are comparable. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact us via our contact form.