Can You Have Your Period When Pregnant?
Can You Have Your Period When Pregnant?
You cannot have a menstrual period during pregnancy. Once you conceive, you do not ovulate. It means the egg doesn’t get released. Every month your body produces the uterine lining, preparing your uterus for a possible pregnancy. If you do not get pregnant in that month, the lining gets shed as your menstrual period. This does not occur when you are pregnant.
Causes of Bleeding in the First Trimester
While the causes of bleeding are not accurately known, it could likely occur due to the below reasons.
Implantation bleeding: It usually occurs two weeks after fertilization when the fertilized egg implants into the uterine lining. Since it occurs around the time of a regular period, women might mistake this spotting for a period. But this is lighter than the period of bleeding and lasts fewer days.
Changes in the cervix: During early pregnancy, the cervix turns soft and rises as more blood reaches the cervix with increasing estrogen levels in the body. Putting any pressure, particularly during intercourse, could reason spotting.
- Miscarriage or pregnancy loss
- Cervical infections or inflamed cervix
- Ectopic pregnancy (the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus)
- Molar pregnancy
Causes of Bleeding During the Second and Third Trimesters
Although rare, bleeding can happen during the mid and late pregnancy. The most probable reasons are:
Sexual intercourse: You might have slight bleeding or spotting after intercourse as the cervical and vaginal tissues become sensitive.
Placenta previa: If the placenta implants close to the cervical opening, it could increase the risk of bleeding.
Placental abruption: The placenta begins to separate from the uterus before the delivery of the baby (second stage of labor), causing bleeding.
Internal examination: Sometimes, your doctor may check the cervical region for any abnormalities, and this procedure could lead to some spots.
Labor: Cervical dilation and uterine contractions that help the fetus to move down the birth canal can cause bleeding.
Uterine rupture: If the uterine muscles separate or tear during labor, it could result in excessive vaginal bleeding. It is likely to occur in women with a history of C-section or uterine surgery.
When Should You See A Doctor?
You should seek medical attention if the following symptoms accompany bleeding:
- Bleeding that is bright red and soaks more than a pad a day
- Severe pain and cramps
- Fainting or dizziness
- Heavy bleeding or passing clots
- Pain in your stomach or pelvic regions