Bleeding during pregnancy - ectopic pregnancy and Deep vein thrombosis symptoms

Bleeding during pregnancy: Bleeding from the vagina at any time in pregnancy can be a dangerous sign. Some causes of vaginal bleeding are more serious than others, so it’s important to find the cause straight away.

Ectopic pregnancy bleeding    

In early pregnancy, bleeding may be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy or a miscarriage, although many women who bleed at this time go on to have normal and successful pregnancies.

Bleeding with pain in early pregnancy   

Most women feel well in early pregnancy but it can be uncomfortable. Some women describe a pain low down in the abdomen similar to a period pain. This does not necessarily mean that something is wrong, but if the pain is more than discomfort or if there is any bleeding, your midwife or GP should refer you for a scan in the early pregnancy assessment unit. This scan will show whether the pregnancy is growing in the uterus. Sometimes you need a second scan to check that all is well.

Bleeding in late pregnancy

The most common sort of bleeding in late pregnancy is the small amount of blood mixed with mucus that is known as a ‘show’. This is a sign that the cervix is changing and becoming ready for labor to start. It may happen a few days before contractions start or during labor itself.

Help and support

Always contact your midwife or doctor immediately if you have vaginal bleeding at any stage of pregnancy.

Deep vein thrombosis in pregnancy  

Deep vein thrombosis is a serious condition where clots develop, often in the deep veins of the legs. It can be fatal if the clot travels from the legs to the lungs. The risk may increase if you are on a long travel (over five hours), where you sit still for a long time.

Deep vein thrombosis symptoms  

If you develop swollen and painful legs or have breathing difficulties, go to your GP or your nearest accident and emergency department immediately.

More advices

For more advices see the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists’ guideline: Thromboprophylaxis during pregnancy, labor and after vaginal delivery