Period During Preghnancy

First, there is no such thing as a period during pregnancy. If you are pregnant and healthy, there is no way you can have a period. What you are experiencing is vaginal bleeding and it is a normal symptom of early pregnancy. There are indeed some cases in which menstruation can occur during pregnancy. These cases usually end in miscarriage or loss of pregnancy.

About vaginal bleeding

Often confused with a period during pregnancy, vaginal bleeding is very common in the early stages of the pregnancy. This can occur in the first trimester pretty frequently and usually there is no reason for concern.

After the egg has been fertilized by the sperm it will travel along the fallopian tubes into the uterus where it will implant and start dividing and growing. The embryo will get attached to the uterus anywhere between 5 and 10 days after conception. It is then when you will probably start experiencing vaginal bleeding.

There are a number of things that can explain vaginal bleeding.

The first is just a sign that the embryo has attached itself to your uterus. However, the bleeding should be light and not come close to the amount you would expect with a normal period. Hormones are a major factor that can lead to vaginal bleeding as well. Sudden changes in hormone levels and the introduction of new hormones into the system may lead to vaginal bleeding. The hormones may even start attacking the uterine wall, a condition called decidual bleeding. Reports show that even though it sounds scary, it does not present a risk factor for you or the baby’s health.

A subchorionic bleed may also be the culprit – a blood clot is formed at the end of the placenta, causing vaginal bleeding. While it usually goes away on its own, it is better to have your doctor check regularly with an ultrasound to make sure.

If you do experience vaginal bleeding, it is advisable to wear a pad and check the amount of blood. This is important, as you will be able to notice if there is a lot less blood than your normal period. If you notice too much blood, contact your doctor or go to the ER. Do not use tampons and avoid sexual intercourse if you experience any kind of bleeding until it stops.

There are however, some cases in which period during pregnancy will be experienced. About 15-20% of pregnancies end with a miscarriage. Experiencing bleeding after confirming being pregnant should be immediately reported to your doctor. If the bleeds are exactly like those experienced during your menstruation, then there are high chances that the pregnancy will terminate.

Ectopic and molar pregnancies may also be the reasons why you are still experiencing a period during pregnancy. In the case of ectopic pregnancies there is no chance to save the baby. Molar pregnancies may result in a multiple pregnancy (twins, for example) out of which one embryo may survive while the other will be nothing more than a lump of grape-shaped tissue.

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