Spotting during pregnancy can make a woman feel alarmed and anxious. However, spotting which is light bleeding may happen at any point in time during the pregnancy. Spotting quite simply refers to passing of a small amount of blood from the vagina. The blood, in this case, can be rusty brown, pink with some amount of mucus or even bright red.
This spotting during pregnancy can occur once or it can even last for many hours and days. It is particularly common during the period of the first trimester. While this may not necessarily mean anything there may be some cases where it may amount to some complications in the pregnancy.
Spotting during pregnancy in some cases may be accompanied by stomach pain or pain in the lower back region. Around 20 percent women experience some degree of bleeding or vaginal spotting in the period of the first trimester. This should not be a cause for alarm particularly if the spotting during pregnancy occurs in the first week or ten days from the day of conception. Such a spotting can be a result of the egg implantation within the uterus lining.
However, spotting that is seen to be continuing for days together is not spotting due to implantation. Since bleeding is one of the most common signs of a possible miscarriage it is advisable that any bleeding or spotting is immediately brought to the attention of the medical professionals.
During the 12the week, spotting can occur as the placenta is embedded within the uterus lining. Some other reasons for spotting also include vaginal infection. Spotting during pregnancy particularly after 37 weeks can be a sign of softening of the cervix. Spotting can be a result of premature labor. The separation between placenta and uterus can also result in spotting. Spotting can occur when the hormone levels in the woman are not high to subdue the periods.
Sometimes spotting can result from intercourse. While sex during pregnancy is not always a problem it is best to refrain from sex for some time particularly in the first trimester. Also guidance of the medical health professional on this issue should be taken. Some women experience spotting and this does not lead to any problems or complications. However, it is advisable to see the medical care professional in the event of spotting during pregnancy so as to get the assurance that things are alright.
Minor bleeding or spotting during pregnancy particularly in the second part of the pregnancy period can be a result of growth on the cervix or inflammation of the cervix. Bleeding during the second and third trimester may also be a sign of a possible problem or complication and so timely medical intervention should be sought.
Bleeding accompanied by intense and strong cramps in the lower region of the stomach or sharp pain in the abdominal area should be immediately brought to the attention of the doctor. Preterm labor may involve vaginal discharge which is bloody, watery and includes mucus. Backache may be present along with abdominal pressure and contractions at regular intervals.
