What should I do if I discover spotting or bleeding during pregnancy at third trimester? Call your doctor or midwife immediately, even if the bleeding seems to have stopped. While it may end up being something minor, it might be a sign of a serious problem. What your healthcare professional does next will depend on your individual circumstance.
You’ll probably need an evaluation, which might include a physical examination, an ultrasound, and blood tests, to make sure you and your baby are alright and to dismiss any complications.
If you’re actively bleeding or have severe pain of any kind and cannot immediately reach your practitioner, head straight for the emergency room.
How is spotting different from bleeding during pregnancy?
Spotting is extremely light bleeding, just like what you may have at the extremely beginning or end of your period. It can vary in color from pink to red to brown (the color of dried blood).
What can cause spotting or bleeding during pregnancy at third trimester?
Although the risk of miscarriage (called a stillbirth after the first 20 weeks) lessens significantly after the first trimester, and much of the early complications are no longer an element (such as ectopic and molar pregnancies), bleeding during the second half of pregnancy need to be taken really seriously, specifically if it’s continuous. Causes for bleeding at third trimester of pregnancy include:
- Sexual intercourse
- Cervical checks, specifically late in the third trimester when they become more frequent
- Placenta previa, which is when the placenta covers the cervix either partially or completely
- Placental abruption, in which the placenta tears far from the wall of the uterus, can cause severe vaginal bleeding and is life-threatening to both Mom and Baby. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, a placental abruption is the most common cause of serious bleeding during late pregnancy. The condition is rare, and takes place just in about one percent of all pregnancies.
- Preterm labor, where vaginal bleeding is accompanied by cramping or contractions, diarrhea, pelvic pressure, or back pain prior to 37 weeks, might have serious effects for the baby if not managed. After 37 weeks, these symptoms might be a regular begin to labor.
Bottom line: No matter when it occurs, any bleeding during pregnancy warrants a call to your doctor or midwife, even if only to verify absolutely nothing is amiss. Be prepared to answer detailed concerns about the color, amount, and timing of blood in order to best help your specialist figure out the possible cause.
