7 Things Spotting During Pregnancy Could Mean

Don't panic: It could simply be from too much fun between the sheets.

By Tehrene Firman, Redbook

When you're pregnant, any sign that you've been bleeding can be incredibly scary. But don't panic: Spotting during pregnancy is actually a lot more common than you think, and most of the time it's nothing to worry about.

"Even though spotting in early pregnancy is common and can be perfectly normal, it can drive fear into the heart of the expectant mother," says Dr. Prudence Hall, founder and medical director of The Hall Center and author of Radiant Again & Forever. "Bleeding in pregnancy is expected in many instances and can be completely normal. At other times, it can indicate a failing pregnancy, miscarriage, problem with the placenta, or premature labor."

All in all, it's a good idea to see your doctor anytime you're experiencing spotting to make sure both you and your baby are safe. But before you assume the worst, here are some common causes for light bleeding during pregnancy.



1

The Embryo Is Implanting

One of the earliest symptoms of pregnancy is light bleeding. So if you're hoping to conceive but find that you're bleeding just a little bit around the time of your expected period, it's possible you were successful after all. "This bleeding is usually due to the embryo implanting into the wall of the uterus around 10-12 days after fertilization," Hall says. "Because fertilization of the embryo occurs right in the middle of a woman's 28 day cycle, and implantation happens 10-12 days later, this bleeding can easily be mistaken for a period. The difference is that it's usually lighter and lasts only a day or two rather than 5 to 7 days."



2

You’re Having a Light Period

Even though it might seem crazy, you can still have your period when you're pregnant — and that means some spotting will occur. "Bleeding can take place at around 6 to 8 weeks of gestation, at the time when a woman's period would normally occur in the second month," Hall says, noting that even some women a few years into menopause continue to have periods. "The same can be true in pregnancy, with bleeding occurring around 8 weeks because the body is so used to bleeding each month. But unlike regular period blood, this bleeding is typically really light and limited to spotting or dark brown blood."



3

You Had Sex

Having sex during pregnancy can be lots of fun — and is totally encouraged! But if you experience some spotting after, it's probably no big deal. "As pregnancy progresses, many women will experience spotting after intercourse. This is normal and occurs because the cervix becomes vascular. Bumping it due to sex can cause minor spotting," Hall says. "Many women experience this and as long as it is occurs after intercourse and is only slight streaking or a spot or two, it's usually nothing to be worried about."



4

You Just Had an Exam

If you're freaking out about some spotting after a doctor's visit, don't fret: "Spotting can happen after a sonogram or pelvic exam by your doctor or medical practitioner. This happens due to a normal increase in blood flow to the uterus and cervix," Hall says.



5

You Have an Infection

Unfortunately, pregnancy doesn't give you a pass from all the normal, super-fun vagina stuff ladies deal with. That means you're still susceptible to infections, which can cause a little blood to appear. "If a woman contracts a vaginal infection such as yeast, she could experience some cervical bleeding," Hall explains.



6

You Had a Miscarriage

While some spotting is harmless, it can also mean something more serious. According to Hall, bleeding due to a miscarriage begins right around 6 to 8 weeks of pregnancy. "It starts with spotting, progressing to heavy cramping, and then a heavier than normal period," she says. "In these instances, women may have felt symptoms of their pregnancy subside before the actual miscarriage bleeding begins, causing real fear about losing the pregnancy."



7

You’re Going Into Premature Labor

No one wants to have their baby early — and spotting could be a sign your little one is ready to come out before you are. "If spotting occurs as pregnancy progresses and is accompanied by cramping, there is concern about premature labor," Hall says. "As the cervix softens and slightly opens, spotting can happen." Talk to your doctor about the best way to proceed. The good news is, labor can be stopped by hydration, bed rest, and medication.

See more at: Redbook