Bleeding at any time during the course of a pregnancy is a matter of concern as it may indicate pregnancy complications. However, the good news is that most women who experience slight bleeding during pregnancy go on to have healthy full term babies. Nevertheless, consulting your gynecologist on experiencing any sign of discomfort or bleeding is highly recommended so as to clear all doubts and to prevent any serious complications. The causes for bleeding during the second trimester are different from bleeding in early pregnancy.
One may experience Light spotting and mild cramping during early pregnancy. This is a result of the implantation process that occurs around the same time that your first missed period would be due. During this period, the fertilized egg embeds itself in the uterine wall.
Bleeding in the first trimester may also be a result of genetic abnormalities in the developing baby or a result of a missed abortion or a miscarriage in progress.
Mild bleeding in pregnancy during the second term mainly occurs due to a sensitive cervix as a result of the pressure exerted by the expanding uterus and the weight of the growing baby. When the cervix is sensitive, even an internal examination or intercourse could rupture tiny blood vessels in the cervix resulting in light bleeding. As the pregnancy progresses, the cervix may not be able to bear the weight of the growing baby and tends to dilate before time resulting in early labor signaled by bleeding. This could lead to miscarriage or still births if not treated in time.
Heavy bleeding in the second trimester would normally indicate serious pregnancy complications that could result in pregnancy loss. Placental abruption, placenta previa, uterine rupture and fetal vessel rupture are some of the serious complications that arise during the latter half of the pregnancy term. Heavy bleeding could also be indicative of preterm labor or a miscarriage in progress, especially if accompanied by cramps, abdominal pain and the passage of clots.
The hormonal changes that continue to take place during the second trimester and the increase in blood supply to the pelvic region may result in an increase in vaginal discharge as well. This is normal provided it does not resemble cottage cheese and does not have a foul odor. Swelling, redness or itching of the labia and a burning sensation while urination could indicate an infection that could prove detrimental if not treated in time. The discharge may be streaked with blood if the level of infection is high.
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