Early pregnancy can be a stressful and confusing time. Your body is starting to change and you’re experiencing new symptoms every day. The one thing you least expect is spotting, especially after a positive pregnancy test.
We get it—it’s easy to panic when you first start spotting. Thankfully, it’s not always a sign that something’s wrong. In this blog, we’ll explain 7 possible reasons you’re spotting after a positive pregnancy test.
1. Implantation Bleeding
Implantation bleeding is light bleeding that occurs when the fertilized egg attaches to the lining of the uterus, usually around the time your period would have been due.[1] It’s usually harmless and lasts a few days.[2] In a healthy pregnancy, it should stop on its own without the need for medical treatment.[3]
2. Hormonal Changes
Pregnancy hormones can cause changes to the cervix, making it more likely to bleed, especially after sex.
3. Cervical Issues
The cervix can bleed more easily during pregnancy because more blood vessels are developing in the area. Problems with the cervix include infections, inflammation, growths, or cervical insufficiency.
4. Infection
A pelvic area, bladder, or urinary tract infection can cause spotting or light bleeding. Infections are usually caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi.
5. Molar Pregnancy
A molar pregnancy occurs when a noncancerous tumor forms in place of a placenta. Unfortunately, the tumor can’t support the growing embryo and the pregnancy eventually ends.[4] A common symptom of molar pregnancies is vaginal bleeding during the first three months of pregnancy.[5]
Thankfully, most women who receive treatment for their molar pregnancies don’t experience any further complications.[6] Your risk for future miscarriage does not increase, but you are at a slightly higher risk of another molar pregnancy.[7] Additionally, you will need to receive regular follow-up care to monitor your risk for cancer.
6. Early Miscarriage
Although spotting is common in the first trimester, it can also be a symptom of early miscarriage.[8] You may also experience a fast heartbeat, cramping or pain in your lower back or pelvic area, and tissue or fluid passing from your vagina.[9] If that happens, contact your doctor immediately to be treated.
7. Ectopic Pregnancy
Another possibility is an ectopic pregnancy. This is when a fertilized egg implants outside of the uterus, such as in a fallopian tube. Unfortunately, an ectopic pregnancy cannot continue. Once discovered, you must receive treatment as quickly as possible.
Early warning signs of ectopic pregnancy include shoulder pain, pelvic pain, and light bleeding.[10] If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms described above, go to the emergency room right away to receive treatment.
Free Pregnancy Services in Cedar Rapids, Iowa
In order to reduce the chances of spotting during early pregnancy, avoid heavy lifting, stay off your feet, and stay well hydrated.
If you have questions about your pregnancy (and all the crazy symptoms that come with it), contact Bridgehaven Pregnancy Support Center. We provide free pregnancy tests, free ultrasounds, and a safe place to get answers.
Give us a call at (319) 220-3077 or request an appointment online today. All services are confidential and free of charge.
This blog is for educational purposes only. It is not meant to serve as medical advice. Speak to your doctor immediately if you’re experiencing spotting or bleeding while pregnant.
Sources
- Marnach, M. (2022, April 19). Is implantation bleeding common in early pregnancy?. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/expert-answers/implantation-bleeding/faq-20058257#
- Implantation Bleeding: Causes, Symptoms & What to Expect. Cleveland Clinic. (2022, December 16). https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/24536-implantation-bleeding
- See source #2.
- Molar Pregnancy: Types, Symptoms, Causes & Treatments. Cleveland Clinic. (2022, November 26). https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17889-molar-pregnancy
- See source #4.
- See source #4.
- See source #4.
- Miscarriage. Mayo Clinic. (2023, September 8). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pregnancy-loss-miscarriage/symptoms-causes/syc-20354298
- See source #8.
- Ectopic Pregnancy – Symptoms & Causes. Mayo Clinic. (2022, March 12). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ectopic-pregnancy/symptoms-causes/syc-20372088