The most common time for bleeding in pregnancy is in the first trimester. At least 30% of pregnant woman will see some bleeding in their first trimester.
This may indicate that the pregnancy is not ongoing, however frequently the pregnancy is still progressing normally.
If the bleeding occurs under six weeks gestation usually a blood test measuring the pregnancy hormone would be done (Beta HCG). Depending on the level of that hormone further blood tests may be required (and tracked over time) or an ultrasound may be performed. It is also essential to determine a mother’s blood group at this stage.
If the bleeding occurs after six weeks,
an ultrasound is useful to determine
the ongoing health of the pregnancy.
The blood group is always crucial in someone who is bleeding. A woman who is Rhesus negative & bleeding should have an Anti-D injection to prevent her from forming rhesus antibodies.
Rarely, bleeding in the first trimester can indicate an ectopic pregnancy, but in general ectopic pregnancies occur in approximately 1% of pregnancies.
Miscarriages are common, with about 25% of women miscarrying in the first trimester of pregnancy.
Any bleeding during your pregnancy should be checked by your healthcare provider.