Vaginal bleeding during the first 3
months of pregnancy may be an indication of a spontaneous abortion
(miscarriage). See the doctor immediately.
Vaginal bleeding during the fourth to
ninth month of pregnancy may be caused by a miscarriage, but may
also be an indication of abnormal location of the placenta, such as
placenta previa or abruptio placentae.
An ectopic pregnancy, in which the
embryo becomes implanted outside the uterus, is often accompanied by
unexpected vaginal bleeding and severe abdominal pain. Ectopic
pregnancy is sometimes associated with current use of an IUD.
A cervical infection can cause
bleeding at any time, including during pregnancy.
Trauma to the cervix from intercourse
may cause a small amount of bleeding.
Early labor is sometimes accompanied
by a small amount of bleeding (bloody show).
There may be other causes of vaginal
bleeding in pregnancy. This list is not all inclusive, and the
causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of
vaginal bleeding during pregnancy can include other diseases and
medications. The causes may be different depending on the age of the
woman. Specific characteristics of this symptom can indicate its
different causes. Such characteristics include quality (light or
heavy bleeding, with or without pain), length of bleeding,
aggravating factors (what makes the bleeding worse), relieving
factors (what makes it better), and related complaints.
