Bleeding During Pregnancy 8 Weeks: Should You See a Doctor?

Nearly 20% of pregnant women globally experience vaginal bleeding in the initial eight weeks of pregnancy. An early diagnosis of the bleeding with treatment is necessary for the good health of the mother and the child. In this article, we will explore the causes of bleeding during pregnancy 8 weeks and discuss when it is necessary to see a doctor.

Causes of vaginal bleeding at 8 weeks pregnant

There are various possible causes for bleeding or spotting at 8 weeks pregnant:

1. Subchorionic hemorrhage

A chorion is a membrane surrounding the embryo that eventually forms the placenta. Bleeding may take place between the chorion and the wall of the uterus. This leads to severe abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding.

2. Cervical changes

During pregnancy, blood flow to the cervix is high. A Pap test during pregnancy can cause contact with the cervix and trigger breakthrough bleeding in 8-week pregnant women.

3. Molar pregnancy

In molar pregnancy, abnormal tissues grow in the uterus instead of the formation of normal tissues inside the fetus. This tissue can sometimes become cancerous and spread. This condition is also called gestational trophoblastic disease. Its symptoms include spotting in 8 weeks of pregnancy along with nausea and vomiting.

4. Miscarriage

Miscarriage is one of the biggest causes of bleeding during early pregnancy. Early diagnosis can be made using ultrasound. The risk of miscarriage drops significantly if the doctor can detect the baby's heartbeat.

5. Infection

Sexually transmitted diseases like chlamydia, gonorrhea, or vaginal or cervical infections can also result in bleeding at 8 weeks in pregnant women.

6. Ectopic pregnancy

In some cases, the zygote develops into the fallopian tube rather than the uterus. This abnormal development might burst the fallopian tube, resulting in life-threatening conditions for the mother. Symptoms of ectopic pregnancy are vaginal bleeding and intense cramps in the abdomen.

Diagnosis of bleeding during pregnancy 8 weeks

Gynecologists will suggest tests to determine the reason for vaginal bleeding at 8 weeks of pregnancy.

1. Examination

The doctor may conduct a physical examination of the vagina to understand the cause of bleeding.

2. Imaging tests

The doctor may also conduct an ultrasound scan to examine the vagina and the size of the baby. A doppler scan can help measure the heart rate of the baby.

3. Blood tests

It tests the concentration of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). A high concentration of hCG indicates multiple pregnancies or molar pregnancies. Low levels of hCG indicate a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.

When to see a doctor

8-week pregnant women must visit a doctor if they observe any of the following symptoms:

• If a woman is 8 weeks pregnant and bleeding bright red when she wipes, for more than a day.
• Moderate to heavy bleeding along with cramps, fever, or chills.
• White vaginal discharge with tissue
• Brown vaginal discharge (indicative of miscarriage)
• Yellow discharge
• Snot like discharge

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What to do if you are 8 weeks pregnant and bleeding?

Women must take the following steps and measures after observing spotting at 8 weeks pregnant or bleeding:

• Use a sanitary pad to estimate the amount and nature of vaginal bleeding (bright red or brown discharge, thin blood or clots).
• Any tissue observed along with the bleeding must be collected and taken to the doctor for diagnosis.
• Don't use menstrual cups or tampons while bleeding.
• Avoid sex during bleeding.
• Immediately consult a doctor on experiencing high fever, chills, severe abdominal pain, and vaginal bleeding.

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Treatment

Doctors observe for signs of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy. The doctor might suggest medication to stop the bleeding or remove tissues from the uterus. A surgical procedure may be advised to remove excess tissue.

FAQs

1. What infections can cause breakthrough bleeding in 8-week pregnant women?

Infections of the vagina or cervix, hemorrhoids, and cancer can result in breakthrough bleeding in 8-week pregnant women.

2. How do you avoid bleeding during pregnancy?

Pregnant women must constantly consume iron and vitamin supplements prescribed by doctors to provide nutrition to the growing fetus. To avoid risks of bleeding or spotting in 8 weeks of pregnancy, they must avoid strenuous activities and exercise regularly. They must also include a fibrous diet and leafy vegetables in their diet to avoid constipation and get relief.

3. How can cervical polyp cause bleeding in 8-week pregnant women?

Cervical polyp, or a non-cancerous growth on the cervix, increases the estrogen levels in females and results in bleeding during pregnancy.

Conclusion

8-week pregnant women must contact their doctor immediately if they observe heavy bleeding, unusual white discharge with tissues, or brown discharge. Usually, bleeding during pregnancy 8 weeks is not harmful, but excessive bleeding might be a sign of ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage.

References

1. Vardhan S, Bhattacharyya TK, Kochar S, Sodhi B. (2007). Bleeding in Early Pregnancy. NCBI

2. E.W. Harville, A.J. Wilcox, D.D. Baird, C.R. Weinberg. (2003). Vaginal bleeding in very early pregnancy. Human Reproduction

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