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Definition
By Mayo Clinic staffVaginal bleeding during pregnancy can be scary. It's common, however, and it isn't always a sign of trouble. Most women who experience vaginal bleeding during pregnancy — particularly during the first trimester (weeks one through 12) — go on to deliver healthy babies.
Still, it's important to take vaginal bleeding during pregnancy seriously. Sometimes vaginal bleeding during pregnancy indicates an impending miscarriage or a condition that needs prompt treatment. By understanding the most common causes of vaginal bleeding during pregnancy, you'll know what to look for — and when to contact your health care provider.
References
- Norwitz ER, et al. Overview of the etiology and evaluation of vaginal bleeding in pregnant women. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Dec. 28, 2010.
- Garner EI. Gestational trophoblastic disease: Management of hydatidiform mole. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Dec. 28, 2010.
- Lockwood CJ. Pathogenesis of spontaneous preterm birth. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Dec. 28, 2010.
- Bleeding during pregnancy. American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. http://www.acog.org/publications/patient_education/bp038.cfm. Accessed Dec. 28, 2010.
- Harms RW (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Jan. 4, 2011.
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