Pregnancy is the only phase a woman is free from her menstrual periods and bleeding. In most normal cases, there is complete absence of bleeding all through 9 months. However, in certain cases, a woman may undergo bleeding or spotting during the initial stages of pregnancy.

In some cases, it is trivial whereas in few women bleeding can happen due to ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage. Although bleeding is abnormal, it does not pose serious complications if you give it immediate attention and care. There are many home remedies and lifestyle changes a pregnant woman can adapt to tackle bleeding during pregnancy.

Read More: Ectopic Pregnancy: Signs, Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

Causes of Bleeding during Pregnancy

Although it is not certain what can cause bleeding, there are some general reasons due to which bleeding can happen during pregnancy. Some of them are:

• Placental abruption: This occurs when the placenta separates from the uterine wall before birth of the baby.
• Implantation bleeding:This is the most common cause of bleeding in pregnant women. In some women light bleeding or spotting happens when the fetus implants itself on the uterine lining of the womb. The bleeding stops after a few days.
• Miscarriage: Miscarriage happens when there is a termination of pregnancy and the fetus dies within the womb. Bleeding is the most common sign of miscarriage.
• Ectopic Pregnancy: This is a condition where the fetus starts growing outside the uterus mainly in the fallopian tubes. The first symptom of ectopic pregnancy is bleeding followed by cramps and abdominal pain.
• Placenta previa: This condition occurs when the placenta enters into the lower part of the uterus and covers the cervix. In such cases, bleeding starts after 28 weeks.

Additional Symptoms that Accompany Bleeding in Pregnancy

• Dizziness
• Fainting
• Fever and chills
• Abdominal pain
• Shoulder pain and discomfort
• Passing big clots of blood
• Unusual smell in vaginal discharge

Home Remedies for Bleeding During Pregnancy

Bleeding in any trimester of your pregnancy is not normal. It requires immediate care and attention. In cases of heavy bleeding it is highly recommended that you consult your gynecologist immediately. Additionally, light bleeding can be controlled by some simple home remedies that are mentioned below

1} Bed Rest

This is one of the most effortless and best remedies for bleeding in pregnancy. Doctors as well suggest to take complete bed rest when they notice any sort of bleeding or spotting in pregnancy.Rest ensures that the placenta stays in the proper place and holds the womb securely. This reduces the chances of a miscarriage.

2} Folic Acid

Folic acid is known to have immense health benefits during pregnancy for both the mother and developing fetus. Folic acid enhances the functioning of the placenta enabling it take care of the fetus and the womb more effectively. Fish, eggs, and green leafy vegetables are excellent sources of folic acid. Folic acid helps the body fight anemia and increases the hemoglobin content in the bone marrow. Increasing your intake of folic acid also helps prevent miscarriage in pregnant women.

3} Intake of Progesterone Supplements

Most often bleeding can also be caused due to sudden changes in the hormone progesterone. It is advisable to get a progesterone test done to check the progesterone levels in your body. If you levels are low, it is recommended that you take progesterone supplements after consulting your doctor. Since progesterone is important to maintain the pregnancy, there should be no compromise on its levels in the body.

4} Avoid Sexual Intercourse

It is generally advised not to have any sexual intercourse in pregnancy. The advice must be more strictly followed if you are having bleeding in pregnancy. Unless the cause of bleeding is certain, you and your partner should strictly avoid sexual intercourse. This help the body function naturally during pregnancy.

5} Guava leaves and star apple leaves concoction

One of the best natural remedies to stop bleeding during pregnancy is a concoction mixture of guava and star apple leaves in water. This mixture is an immediate remedy to stop bleeding and spotting in pregnancy. This drink clogs the blood from within and prevents further bleeding. It is an instant effect and bleeding stops within a few hours.

6} Avoid strenuous activities

Excess physical or strenuous activities can put immense pressure on the uterine wall. This can weaken the mucous plug causing spotting or bleeding. During pregnancy it is advisable to stay away from strenuous activities that can pose serious implications in your pregnancy. Extra precautions always help in the long run.

7} Treat STIs

It is hard to imagine, but bleeding can also be caused due to sexually transmitted infections. It is advisable to get yourself tested for any infection and consult your doctor immediately. Taking antibiotics at the right time can cure STIs and reduce the occurrence of bleeding.

When you experience bleeding, you may feel a mixture of emotions at the same time. Some concern and some guilt. But do not blame yourself as you have done nothing wrong. Bleeding can happen to almost any woman in pregnancy. It is just important that you observe your body changes carefully and bring it to the notice of your doctor immediately. Additionally, your body needs immense rest and mental relaxation to have a healthy pregnancy.

References

http://thestir.cafemom.com/pregnancy/152087/11_reasons_women_bleed_during

http://www.lifemartini.com/5-best-remedies-for-bleeding-during-pregnancy/