Bleeding during pregnancy is frightening for expectant mothers. As the Mayo Clinic explains, though, it is common, especially during the first 12 weeks. Regardless of its commonality, vaginal bleeding during pregnancy should not be taken lightly. Anyone who experiences this should seek medical treatment immediately to rule out any serious health conditions.
Miscarriage
Approximately 15 to 20 percent of all pregnancies end in miscarriage, and a majority of these happen in the first 12 weeks, according to the American Pregnancy Association. Most miscarriages are not preventable, as they are the body's way of ending an unhealthy pregnancy. Signs include vaginal bleeding, tissue passing through the vagina and cramping low in the stomach that is stronger than menstrual cramps.
Ectopic Pregnancy
Another condition that occurs early in pregnancy, an ectopic pregnancy takes place in the fallopian tubes as a result of the fertilized egg not moving into the uterus. One in 60 pregnancies ends in ectopic pregnancies, and symptoms include sharp abdominal pains, cramping in the lower stomach and vaginal bleeding.
Bleeding After Intercourse
As the American Pregnancy Association explains, some women bleed after intercourse because the cervix is tender. While normal intercourse does not contribute to a miscarriage, the site suggests discontinuing intercourse until the gynecologist gives his approval.
Labor
During the latter half of the pregnancy, vaginal bleeding can be a sign of labor. A few weeks prior to labor, the mucus plug--which consists of small amounts of mucus and blood--may pass through the vagina. This plug covers the uterus, and labor follows shortly after it exits the vagina. For many women, this is not a problem, but when it occurs before a woman reaches Week 37, it is known as preterm labor.
Additional signs of preterm labor include pressure or pelvic pain, stomach cramps, dull backache, vaginal discharge and regular contractions or tightening of the uterus.
