Some women also do not have any periods while breast-feeding. However, they may still begin to ovulate again soon after giving birth. Therefore, doctors may recommend some form of birth control while a woman is breast-feeding if she does not wish to get pregnant.
The menstrual cycle occurs to facilitate pregnancy. The cycle begins on the first day of a person’s period and ends on the first day of the following period. Ovulation, when the ovary releases an egg, occurs midway through the cycle. An egg is only viable for about 12–24 hours after a woman ovulates. If sperm cells are present and able to fertilize the egg, the egg will implant itself in the uterus, resulting in pregnancy.
If there is no fertilization, menstruation will occur, and the body will shed the uterine lining so that it can begin making a new one for the next cycle.
Other causes of bleeding during pregnancy
Although a woman will not have a period when she is pregnant, she may still experience some bleeding. While bleeding is not necessarily a sign of an underlying problem, it is essential to understand the potential causes and know when to speak to a doctor.
Bleeding tends to be more common during the first trimester. Some mild spotting can occur as the placenta implants in the uterus.
A woman can also experience changes in the cervical cells during pregnancy, which may cause some light bleeding, especially after having sex.
Other causes of bleeding in the first trimester include:
- ectopic pregnancy, which is a medical emergency
- an infection
- miscarriage, or pregnancy loss
- subchorionic hemorrhage, also called subchorionic hematoma, when bleeding occurs between the uterine wall and the placenta
- gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD), a very rare condition that can simulate pregnancy by causing a tumor that may contain abnormal fetal tissue
After 20 weeks
Causes of bleeding later in pregnancy may include:
- Cervical examination: A doctor may inspect the cervix to check for any abnormalities. This procedure can result in some minor bleeding.
- Placenta previa: This is a condition that occurs when a woman’s placenta implants close to or on the cervical opening.
- Preterm labor or labor: During labor, the cervix will dilate, and the uterus will contract to help move the fetus down. This can result in some bleeding.
- Sexual intercourse: While most women can continue to have sex while pregnant, unless a doctor advises otherwise, they may experience some spotting and bleeding due to increased sensitivity of the vaginal and cervical tissues.
- Uterine rupture: This is when the uterus tears during labor, which is a medical emergency. This condition is rare but is more likely to occur if a woman has previously had a cesarean delivery or surgery on the uterus.
- Placental abruption: This is a condition in which the placenta begins to separate from the uterus before the baby is born. It is also a medical emergency.
If a woman does experience bleeding at any stage of pregnancy and is concerned, she should note the color, amount, and consistency of the bleeding and speak to a doctor.
When to see a doctor
Women should seek emergency medical attention for bleeding during pregnancy if they have additional symptoms that include:
- pain and cramping
- dizziness or fainting
- heavy bleeding or passing clots
- severe pain in the stomach and pelvis
A woman should also see a doctor about bleeding that is bright red and soaks a pad.
Vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain early in pregnancy may be a sign of ectopic pregnancy, especially if these symptoms occur before an initial ultrasound. Any woman who suspects an ectopic pregnancy should see a doctor as soon as possible.
If a woman is bleeding and has symptoms of preterm labor, which is labor before 37 weeks of gestation, she should seek medical attention. These symptoms may include a constant ache in the lower back, abdominal cramping, and regular contractions.
Bleeding during pregnancy does not indicate that a woman is having her period. Sometimes the bleeding can be the result of regular changes in the body during pregnancy. Heavy bleeding may indicate a health issue that requires treatment. If a woman experiences bleeding during pregnancy, she should speak to a healthcare professional for guidance.