WOMENS-HEALTH Messages for June, 1998: Re: Bleeding Week 3-4 of pregnancy

Re: Bleeding Week 3-4 of pregnancy

From: anonymous@obgyn.net
Sun, 7 Jun 1998 15:16:03 -0500 (CDT)

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In reply to: Karen: "Bleeding Week 3-4 of pregnancy"

At Sun, 7 Jun 1998, Karen wrote: >
>I am finally pregnant after a huge fertility work-up and am now in week
>3-4 of my pregnancy. Went for my first OB visit several days ago where
>a PAP was done, etc. I have been spotting/bleeding now for 3 days and
>am worried.

Although any bleeding in pregnancy is of concern, there are a number of common and usually harmless reasons why someone in the first trimester will have vaginal bleeding. The cervix (and the entire genital tract) becomes more vascular during pregnancy. Pap smears, internal exams, cervical cultures, and intercourse can all cause spotting during pregnancy. Cervicitis, an inflammation of the cervix, can also cause spotting.

A rare cause of bleeding is cervical cancer.

Unfortunately, in many cases spotting or bleeding during the first trimester is a warning sign for miscarriage. About 50% of pregnancies associated with spotting/bleeding during the first trimester will go on to miscarry. Although there is nothing one can do to prevent a miscarriage when bleeding occurs, ob/gyn physicians usually advise pelvic rest (including no intercourse, tampons, or douching). We also typically ask that you notify your doctor so he or she can schedule an ultrasound (sometimes also called a sonogram) or obtain blood tests to measure pregnancy hormone (HCG) levels. Again, unfortunately there is nothing one can do to prevent a miscarriage, but by diagnosing a viable pregnancy we can put the patient's mind at ease.

Thus, there are a number of less dangerous causes of bleeding, and a few worrisome ones. Please check with your doctor or midwife for specific advice about the cause of your bleeding, and good luck with your pregnancy.

-- Ashley Hill David Ashley Hill, M.D. Associate Director Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Florida Hospital Family Practice Residency Orlando, Florida

The above information is provided for medical education only, and is not intended as specific medical advice. I am sorry, but due to time constraints, I am unable to answer personal e-mail.

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