Spotting in Early Pregnancy

Pregnancy brings along many bodily changes in women. They may experience many symptoms during the early stages of pregnancy. Spotting may be one among them, but may arise due to various reasons. Hence, it is very important to understand the various aspects of spotting, which can be a cause for worry. But most cases of spotting in early pregnancy are considered normal. It may subside after two or three days.

What Causes Early Pregnancy Spotting?

Spotting can be defined as a very small amount of blood discharged through the vagina. Most of the time, it goes unnoticed, until you notice it as a light stain on your underwear or on the toilet paper. Usually, spotting is considered normal in pregnant women, unless accompanied by any other symptoms, like cramping in early pregnancy or severe abdominal pain, clots and tissues in vaginal discharge, etc. Pink or brown spotting, early in pregnancy is normal, but frequent spotting, which is bright red in color, is a cause of worry. The following are some of the causes of spotting.

• Spotting during the first two weeks of pregnancy can be due to implantation. When the fertilized egg gets itself attached to the lining of the uterus, slight bleeding may occur and this is termed as implantation bleeding. Signs of implantation bleeding can be in the form of spotting or light bleeding for two to three days. Some women may not experience implantation bleeding.
• Another reason for spotting in early pregnancy can be an ectopic pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the fertilized egg attaches to any other location other than the uterus. It is called tubal pregnancy, when the egg gets attached to the lining of the fallopian tube. It can cause heavy spotting or bleeding, accompanied by severe abdominal pain. In such cases, immediate medical attention is necessary.
• Spotting during early pregnancy can be a sign of miscarriage. A miscarriage often starts with spotting, which leads to bleeding, along with other symptoms, like cramping and pain. But only a few women, who experience spotting, undergo miscarriage and spotting, and it does not mean that you are going to have a miscarriage.
• As the cervix is very tender with a higher blood supply during pregnancy, spotting can happen after sex, or an internal examination. You have to rest for one or two days and if the spotting persists, you should consult your doctor. Spotting can be due to some sort of infection in the pelvic or urinary tract. Sometimes, spotting in early pregnancy happens without any reason, but does not hamper the development of a healthy pregnancy.

What to Do in Case of Spotting in Early Pregnancy?

Very light spotting during early pregnancy is not a cause of concern. You should refrain from sexual intercourse, douching and inserting tampons. But it is always better to consult your doctor and clear your doubts, once you experience spotting. In case of bleeding or any other discomfort like abdominal pain, cramps, etc. contact your doctor immediately. The same is applicable, if you notice any clots or tissues in your vaginal discharge. Above all, take rest and avoid any type of work, including lifting heavy objects etc. Spotting in early pregnancy is not a major problem and there is no need to worry, unless you experience any other severe symptoms.