Bleeding In Late Pregnancy - What It Could Be

Bleeding in late pregnancy, second and third trimesters should be reported to your doctor or midwife straight away. If you can't contact your normal practitioner then go to your nearest accident and emergency, or call an ambulance. Although the outcome is not always serious, its not worth the risk of just leaving things be!

Reasons for bleeding in later pregnancy

• It could be something as simple as changes to your cervix, this is quite common in early pregnancy too.

• It could be 'show'. Is the bleeding more of a 'bloody mucus' or jelly like? If so it could just be the plug that seals the cervix coming away before labour starts (this should still be reported to your midwife)

• If the bleeding is heavy and bright red it could be something more serious. Placenta previa is where the placenta lies low on the cervix. Placental abruption is where the placenta starts to peel away from the uterine wall. Both of these complications will need immediate attention in hospital.

• There could be some other underlying uterine problem, which again should be checked out right away.

Once you are at the hospital you will be seen by an expert in this area and you will be in the best hands. You may have tests carried out, and you may be advised to stay in hospital, whatever the outcome, you know that once you are at the hospital, you and your baby should be getting the best care possible.

Do not ignore any bleeding in the second or third trimester pregnancy, it's just not worth taking the risk! Some women that experience bleeding and are too frightened to tell anyone. Do not suffer in silence, speak to your midwife or GP as soon as possible. Even if it's just slight spotting, you should still get it checked out. The sooner the bleeding is treated and the problem is diagnosed, the safer it will be for you and your baby.

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