Can I Still Be Pregnant After Heavy Bleeding and Clots

Becki Rizzuti has had four natural pregnancies and childbirths. She is an advocate of natural pregnancy and natural birth.

It's Normal to Bleed Some During Early Pregnancy

Roughly 20% of women experience some bleeding during the first trimester or first three months of pregnancy.¹

If this happens to you, please don't panic. It's likely that you're experiencing a normal pregnancy with some simple spotting. Worry can stress you or your baby, so try to relax and consider the important facts described below.

While it is always advised that pregnant women go to an obstetrician for medical advice, women also need to be aware that there are many other reasons for bleeding in early pregnancy, and many of them are nothing to worry about.

*Please do note that I am not a doctor, and I have not been to medical school. I am, however, a mother who has been through four successful pregnancies and has experienced vaginal bleeding during pregnancy.

When to Worry

Bleeding, in general, is more concerning when it is heavy (more than that of the heaviest day of a regular menstrual period), and accompanied by abdominal pain.²

"In the first trimester, 15 to 25 percent of pregnancies can experience vaginal bleeding," says Dr. Mark Trolice, director of the IVF Center in Winter Park, Florida. He adds that, "While any bleeding is alarming, it is not associated with miscarriage unless heavy bleeding occurs, resulting in approximately a 24 percent risk of loss."

You can see some causes of both light and heavy bleeding below.³

Note: If you are in extreme pain or are experiencing a lot of bleeding, you should see your doctor immediately. Otherwise, take note of the bleeding (its color, frequency, duration, and amount), and any other symptoms that accompany it so you can let your doctor or midwife know about it.

In the time before you see your doctor, this article will help you decode what you're seeing down there.

We'll discuss:

Causes of light and heavy bleeding in early pregnancy
Specific causes for brown, pink, and red bleeding

The chance of miscarriage varies between 10 and 25 percent for all women in the first trimester (4)
Type of Bleeding	% of Women That Experience It	Increased Chance of Miscarriage
Light bleeding or spotting (you only notice it when you wipe)	15 - 20% of women	Not necessarily
Heavy bleeding (more than the heaviest flow of a period)	Roughly 2% of women	More likely

It's important to note that there has not been much research done on the relationship between bleeding during early pregnancy and miscarriages that happen later on.³

According to Dr. Trolice, "Though bleeding can be scary, there is no definitive evidence on the amount of bleeding, color of blood, or associated symptoms that will predict a miscarriage."

However, there is some evidence that light bleeding in the first trimester is less closely linked with the chance of miscarriage than episodes of heavy bleeding.⁴

In the second and third trimester, bleeding of any kind is a cause for concern.¹

Most Common Causes of Light Bleeding or Spotting in Early Pregnancy That Are Not Cause for Concern

Most episodes of bleeding are not a cause for concern and do not raise the chance of miscarriage. If there is a heartbeat in the ultrasound, 90% of women who experience bleeding will have a successful pregnancy. (6)
Cause	When It Happens	More Details
Implantation Bleeding	A few days before the day of your expected period	May have light cramping. Bleeding lasts between 3 hrs and 3 days and has no clotting. Its color may be light pink or brown. (5)
Minor Cervical or Vaginal Injury	Might happen after having sex, a gyno visit, or vigorous exercise	This is not a cause for concern and should clear up on its own. Increased blood flow to these areas makes them more likely to bleed in early pregnancy. (1)
Bleeding From Cervical Polyp	Also might happen after sex, gyno visit, or exercise	Polyps (benign growths) on the cervix are more likely to bleed during pregnancy because of increased blood flow and estrogen levels. (1)
Unknown Benign Cause	Sometimes it's unclear why the bleeding happens, but the fetus remains healthy	It's important to record any bleeding you experience and other symptoms so your healthcare provider can have as much information as possible to provide you with the best care.

Possible Causes of Heavier Bleeding During Early Pregnancy

Heavy bleeding episodes, especially those associated with pain, are more of a cause for concern than light bleeding episodes during early pregnancy.
Cause	When It Happens	Symptoms
Miscarriage	Between 10 - 25% of pregnancies miscarry in the first trimester.	Other symptoms include cramping, true contractions, mild to severe back pain, and tissue passing through the vagina. (4)
Ectopic Pregnancy	This is when the egg implants itself outside the uterus. This happens in 1 out of 50 pregnancies.	Some symptoms of ectopic pregnancy include bleeding, stabbing pain in the lower abdomen, and lightheadedness. (7)
Molar Pregnancy	Very rare condition where abnormal tissue grows inside the uterus instead of a baby. This occurs in 1 out of 1000 pregnancies.	Other symptoms can include nausea and vomiting, and rapid enlargement of the uterus. (8)
Infection of the Vagina or the Cervix	Various STIs and other infections can cause bleeding.	Some symptoms of infection can include abnormal vaginal discharge, abdominal pain, and fever. (6)

What Should You Do If You're Bleeding? Is It a Miscarriage?

According to Dr. Trolice, "Only an obstetrical ultrasound can provide assurance on the viability of the pregnancy. While there are no activity restrictions, we recommend avoiding intercourse during bleeding in order to reduce the risk of potential intrauterine infection since bleeding may result in the cervix dilating."

You should alert your OB of any bleeding during a pregnancy, and if you're in pain and bleeding heavily, you should see a doctor immediately.

Different Types of Vaginal Blood During Pregnancy

Blood comes in three colors: bright red, pale pink, and brown. You will notice the difference in your panties or when you wipe.

Note the color of the discharge that you're experiencing, as this will be significant information for your doctor or midwife. Your ability to give them descriptive information will aid them in assisting you.

The color and the amount of blood are two important things to note. The color might range from pale pink to brown to red.

A Rough Guide to Why You Might Be Spotting Blood During Early Pregnancy

These are just guidelines, not rules. Bleeding can be an indication of miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, problems with the placenta, or another serious complication, so it's important to consult your doctor or midwife. Miscarriage can also happen witho
Pink Spotting	Brown Spotting	Red Spotting
Cervical settling	Old blood from periods	Implantation
Leftover blood from implantation	Leftover blood from implantation	Vaginal bleeding from cuts
Minor cervical injury	Healed cervical injury	Miscarriage (chemical pregnancy)

Common Reasons for Light Pink Spotting in Early Pregnancy

Implantation (when the fertilized egg implants on the uterine wall) or blood left over from implantation.¹
Minor cervical injury due to increased sensitivity from extra blood flow. This might happen after having sex or seeing the gynecologist.¹
Bleeding from a cervical polyp.¹
Rarely, it may be a sign of a more serious problem.¹

Pink blood usually isn't something to be overly concerned about. Pink spotting is quite normal during early pregnancy. In fact, you may experience some pink or light red bleeding at the time that the fertilized egg implants on the uterine wall. This may also be accompanied by some cramping.1

Cervical Bleeding May Look Pink

Often, this blood during early pregnancy is coming from your cervix. During pregnancy (and particularly in the early phases of a first pregnancy), your cervix is changing and preparing for the work that it's going to do protecting your uterus from infection and then later, opening to allow the baby to come out. The increased blood flow and estrogen can make the area more sensitive, which might cause bleeding after sex or gyno visits.¹

The pink color may result from the mixing of other vaginal discharge with the blood.

What to Do If You Have Pink Bleeding?

If your bleeding is pink (light or dark) or watery, watch for further developments. If you begin to experience cramping or heavier blood flow as well, you'll want to contact your doctor.

Possible Causes of Brown Spotting During Early Pregnancy

Old blood from your previous period.
Previously clotted blood from vaginal injury.
Healed cervical injury.
Sexual intercourse or a pelvic exam can dislodge old blood.
Rarely, it may be a sign of a more serious problem.

Many women report brown vaginal spotting during early pregnancy. They often say that the blood comes out in clumps (or clots). This can be alarming because brown spotting sometimes comes in higher volumes than the aforementioned pink spotting.

The important thing to remember is not to cause yourself more stress than is absolutely necessary. In most cases, brown spotting is quite normal during pregnancy (as well as at other times in a woman's life).

What Causes Brown Spotting?

As with the pink, brown spotting is generally caused by changes your body experiences during pregnancy. Your cervix is softening, lengthening, shortening, and eventually dilating and thinning, and you'll experience more cervical pressure as your uterus expands to accommodate the growing fetus.

It should also be noted that many doctors and midwives refer to brown blood as "old blood," meaning that you have, essentially, lost a scab on your cervix.⁹ Sometimes brown blood comes from the vaginal walls themselves as well (which is equally harmless).

What Should You Do?

To the pregnant woman, brown blood is more concerning than pink blood because it is often heavier in volume. Although they will likely tell you that you have nothing to worry about, it's best to touch base with your doctor or midwife.

Red Spotting May Be More Likely to Be a Sign of Something Serious

Possible Reasons for Red Spotting

Vaginal bleeding caused by cuts or abrasions
Implantation (before you find out you're pregnant)¹
Ectopic pregnancy⁷
Chemical pregnancy (early miscarriage)⁴

If you see more than a dime-sized amount of red blood in your panties or on the toilet paper after you've wiped, step away from the computer and go call your doctor.

Red blood can be an indication of a serious problem and you'll want to get checked. Go take care of that phone call and then you can come back and continue reading while you wait for your doctor or midwife to call you back.

Red blood during pregnancy isn't something that you want to ignore, even though it doesn't necessarily mean you're having a miscarriage!

Now that you have called your doctor, let's talk about red blood during early pregnancy.

What Does Red Spotting Mean?

There are two types of red blood that you may encounter:

The first looks similar to the image of blood above: It's bright red (which usually means that it's highly oxygenated) and relatively thin. If you're experiencing this type of bleeding, chances are that you're going to be okay (unless you're bleeding in large amounts). You should still go in for a check up, but the chances are that you've gotten a scratch somewhere, especially if you're only spotting. This is more normal than you might think.
The other type of red blood is the type that you can worry about. This blood is darker, more like the color of your menstrual fluid, and may be mixed with some tissue. If you're seeing this type of bleeding, your doctor will probably want to see you straight away.

What to Do

Don't mess around if you're bleeding red, even if you aren't cramping. However, it's recommended to call your doctor or midwife instead of rushing straight for the emergency room.

Cramping With Spotting or Bleeding Could be Serious

By themselves, bleeding or cramping aren't necessarily serious.

But in combination with one another, cramping and bleeding may indicate a miscarriage or other serious problem, and you need to get yourself to the hospital right away!²

Bleeding During Pregnancy Doesn't Always Mean Miscarriage

Many women (myself included) experience bleeding during early pregnancy (and even beyond) and go on through normal pregnancies without further problems. Bleeding alone is no reason to panic and if you aren't experiencing cramping with the bleeding, you may very well be just fine.

Remember that there is no substitute for a doctor's advice. If you're worried about the condition of your baby, consult with your doctor or midwife!

Sources

"Spotting During Pregnancy." Nov 1, 2017. American Pregnancy Association. Accessed Mar 20, 2018.
Hasan R, Baird DD, Herring AH, et al."Association Between First-Trimester Vaginal Bleeding and Miscarriage." 2009. Obstetrics and Gynecology. Accessed Mar 20, 2018.
Hasan, Reem, PhD., Baird, Donna D., PhD., et al. "Patterns and predictors of vaginal bleeding in the first trimester of pregnancy." Jul 2010. Annals of Epidemiology. Accessed Mar 20, 2018.
"Miscarriage: Signs, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention." Dec 5, 2017. American Pregnancy Association. Accessed Mar 20, 2018.
"What Is Implantation Bleeding?" November 25, 2017. American Pregnancy Association. Accessed Mar 20, 2018.
Reviewed by Traci C. Johnson, MD."Bleeding During Pregnancy." Jul 18, 2016. WebMD. Accessed Mar 20, 2018.
"Ectopic Pregnancy: Symptoms, Causes, Risks And Treatment." Jul 20, 2016. American Pregnancy Association. Accessed Mar 20, 2018.
"Molar Pregnancy: Symptoms, Causes, Risks And Treatment." Apr 17, 2017. American Pregnancy Association. Accessed Mar 20, 2018.
Schaefer, Anna and Tim Jewell. Medically reviewed by Kim Dishman, MSN, WHNP-BC, RNC-OB. "Why Is My Period Blood Brown?" Jul 21, 2016. Healthline. Accessed Mar 20, 2018.

This content is accurate and true to the best of the author's knowledge and does not substitute for diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, prescription, and/or dietary advice from a licensed health professional. Drugs, supplements, and natural remedies may have dangerous side effects. If pregnant or nursing, consult with a qualified provider on an individual basis. Seek immediate help if you are experiencing a medical emergency.

Zugeil on August 01, 2020:

My period was late for 4days and I spotting but it was pink now is browish when I whip there nothing on the toilet paper is that coming down

Yakubu farihat on July 20, 2020:

I have been having back pain and cramp after my ovulation, my period was suppose to be on the 17th of July but later started on the 19th of july, the blood is not like that of normal period. What could be the cause?

EmmaMc on June 02, 2020:

Jsut wanted to say thank you so much for this article, I have my scan appointment booked but reading this whilst waiting has really helped calm me down and realise to not just expect the worst. Hopefully all will be well, either way this article is really been useful to me xxx

Noni on May 03, 2020:

I am pregnant 2 months

Last night i feel abdominal cramps and bleeding

Please guide me

Rainbow M. on March 09, 2020:

Bleeding when pregnant is not common. There is a lot of misinformation that makes It difficult for expecting moms to know exactly what to expect. If you didn't have spotting in the beginning and it starts go to a doctor. A closed cervix and beating heart does not necessarily mean you will not miscarry. I had mild spotting that gradually got heavier with no clots, cramps were minimal and became more painful the day of my miscarriage. I visited the doctor and er 3x in a week, all to be told the heartbeat was a good sign and the bleeding should subside— with no sex and rest, etc. However on Thursday night I visited the ER, the bleeding just got heavier and I passed four clots all together. Trust your gut. Go to the doctor even though there is no stopping a miscarriage, it's never normal to be bleeding.

Amanda on February 10, 2020:

Hi ive had 2 ultrasound and both came back inconclusive. I wasnt bleeding yesterday but today i am followed by some cramping. Im not sure how far along i am but i am getting scared and dont know what to do

mariah on November 14, 2019:

what does it mean when you bleed the 13th day after you ovulate and three days before you get your period and pregnancy test time?

Zeenat islam on July 07, 2019:

Helo mam, i am newly married, 3 month ago. After marriage my menstrual period has totally changed, i never experienced any clot during periods ,but after marriage there is always pink,orange type spotting for a whole day and on next day it is followed by heavy bright red bleeding with big clots. I always think it's Something wrong and this time i test my urine gor pregnancy on 4 day of periods but its negative and i still feel some pregnancy symptoms.

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on April 07, 2019:

If you're cramping, please see your doctor!

AJ12343 on April 03, 2019:

I'm 5 weeks pregnant and i had light bleeding that was pink in the morning at night i had cramps and it was red but it would stop and start again.

Jay on December 29, 2018:

I'm 4 weeks 5 days pregnant two days ago I got light brown spotting in the morning today also the same pls advice I'm so nervous cause I can't have ultrasound cause baby is too early

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on November 16, 2018:

I'm not familiar with pregnancy on the IUD. Please ask your doctor!

Charles Duckenz on November 15, 2018:

I have been nauseous for 5 days, I've had 3 dizzy spells since then and i have been horribly fatigued. I am on an iud which means the chance of me getting pregnant is a .3% chance. Went to the drs today and they were convinced that there is a large chance i beat the odds. Now I'm just waiting until tomorrow for the results of my blood test. I have been spotting light pink for 4 days, not enough for a pad but it definitely shows when i wipe. I hadn't spotted all day until an hour ago, i wiped and it was a brighter red and a good amount but still not as much as a typical period. I peed 5 mins ago and no red. If i am pregnant, would this be usual bleeding or possibly a miscarriage / ectopic pregnancy?

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on November 15, 2018:

It's always best to ask your doctor if you have any concerns. However, I've personally experienced this both during pregnancy and between periods, and it was never a concern.

Ash on November 15, 2018:

I'm 8 weeks 4 days and the other day, I saw a small little pink clot in the toilet bowl, but nothing when I wiped. Two days prior, I saw a darker brown colored clot in the toilet bowl, but nothing when wiping. Both times, what I saw was very small, maybe 1/4 the size of a penny. Anyone experience anything similar? Everything I've found only discusses blood when wiping and massive amounts of spotting/bleeding along with cramps.

Kerri on November 13, 2018:

I'm 9wks and I started to hve a pinkish brown discharge but only when I wipe. I have no cramps or pain- just blood when I wipe. I'm going to my dr. tmrw but I just wanted to know if there's anyone experiencing or have experienced something like this..

Lalaa82 on November 11, 2018:

HI, I had four miscarriages before and all of them were blighted Ovum. In all the pregnancies I was passing pink/red tissue. I'm pregnant again and from day one I'm passing tissues and spotting. I did the ultrasound yesterday and unexpectedly we found a heartbeat at 6w5d. Why I'm passing tissues and spotting in all my pregnancies?? None of the obgy I went to have an answer.

Jubilee LP on October 29, 2018:

I am around 7 weeks and started spotting and sere

dee on October 26, 2018:

i i tested positive on september butthn ten tested negative yersteday today im spotting is tht normal

cindy on October 22, 2018:

I hav unprotected sex on 7 october then after that i've got red spot now i'm expecing my period is my day today i've got brown spot, may i'm pregnant pls help

Mokwena on October 21, 2018:

I tested 1_2 with clear blue last week but now I had brown spotting now the spotting is changing color it looks like light blood. Should I be worried?

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on October 10, 2018:

It's not implantation bleeding. That would happen before you could get a positive pregnancy test.

Talk to your doctor. A small amount of blood PROBABLY isn't an issue, but you want to be sure. Contact your medical professional.

You may want to be tested to see if it's a urinary tract infection as a possibility as well. For me, they were practically a symptom of pregnancy.

Kylee on October 10, 2018:

Okay so I haven't have my first ultrasound I'm around 5 weeks or so but every time I go pee I bleed it's nothing heavy I have no cramping or anything it's just blood it's not a lot but it comes out when I pee it's been doing this for about a day I got my blood drawn the day of and my hcg levels are high which is good. Could this be a mc or implantation bleeding?

T.d. on September 18, 2018:

Thank you for this!

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on September 15, 2018:

As always, check with your doctor or midwife.

However, PROBABLY not. Light pink spotting is rarely a cause for concern. Call your doctor or midwife to be sure and for further reassurance.

Britters on September 15, 2018:

I saw light pink spotting after I wiped and I'm six weeks pregnant should I be concerned

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on September 06, 2018:

Some women *do* experience regular spotting during their pregnancies. Trust your doctor, and call them if you start bleeding enough to fill a pad. I believe the criteria is "in an hour" but I'd call if you can fill one in four or fewer hours.

It sounds like you're going to be fine though! Good luck with the ultrasound!

Meghan on September 06, 2018:

Hello. I found out 4 weeks ago that I am pregnant. I am estimated to be about 8-9 weeks. I have an internal ultra sound scheduled in 4 days but I am freaking out. I have been having spotting on and off for about 2 weeks now and I am scared. I have talked to my doctor and they say it's normal early in pregnancy. Is this something that some woman experience everyday? I feel like at least once a day I see pink or brown blood.

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on September 01, 2018:

My thoughts are with you. Keep your doctor informed.

Fngp on August 31, 2018:

I started spotting the night before my first ultrasound. I told the doctor they said it should be normal because it was light and I'm not cramping. But my ultrasound scared me as well. They seen a yolk sac and a dot but couldn't distinguish if it was a fetal pole so I have to come back in 2 weeks. I am still spotting. Not enough to get on my panties. Not even every time when I wipe so it's very light. But still, it's very startling. Especially since a fetal pole was not seen. Today I have a minor back ache in my left lower back. Oh and I've been spotting for 2 days now.

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on August 26, 2018:

Hope, I bled heavily at one point during my last pregnancy, and my daughter is ten years old now. If the doctor says it's all fine, I'm sure everything's all fine!

Hope on August 25, 2018:

Hi, i found out i was pregnant on 8/21 and got to hear the heartbeat at 6wks 1day but was low at 83 and so on friday i had spotting of a light pink then a red i went to the ER and said that the baby was where its suppose to be and everything came back normal and now all day i wasnt bleeding until i took my meds for diabetes, has this ever happened to anybody... im really worried, oh and they said i had a slight yeast infection. And found cyct on my ovary.

Rabia on August 01, 2018:

I am 9 weeks. Yesterday i found brown discharge. Actually color was so light that it wasn't visible on dark trousers. After wearing light colored trousers i came to know that its pinkish brown discharge. M so much worried. Weather to go to doctor or not

Meg on July 30, 2018:

Thank you, I did. I will have my levels checked tomorrow morning. I will post an update. I really appreciate your website and the weath of knowledge it provides.

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on July 30, 2018:

I'm so sorry, Meg. The only thing really to do is to wait until you can see your regular doctor. Did you make an appointment?

Meg on July 29, 2018:

I went to urgent care yesterday Saturday 6/28) after having severe pain in my left side accompanied by bleeding (since Thursday 6/26). The bleeding was dark with small particles at first and is now a true red. It is not spotting and is similar to my period flow. I thought that I had had my period last week 6/15-6/19 until I began bleeding on 6/26.

My pregnancy test came back positive. I then went to the ER for an ultrasound and blood work. My HCG level is 480mIU/mL. The ultrasound did not show anything in my uterus or Fallopian tube. I do have cyst on my right ovary but the pain is constant and central to my left side and at times my uterus. The doctor told me to follow up with my regular dr Tuesday for an HCG test. He diagnosed me as a "Threatened Miscarraige". He said it is possible that I may have an ectopic pregnancy and that we just can't see it yet. I am worried as the pain is persistent and constant and the bleeding is still occurring. I should note that I took 2 plan b's following the night of intercourse. I had a yeast infection after.

I am very confused and waiting is making me incredibly anxious. The ER dr prescribed me 5mg Percocet with 325mg Tylenol. I have only taken half of one at this point.

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on July 29, 2018:

Hollie, this sort of bleeding is actually fairly typical early in pregnancy. It sounds like things are going well so far. Your doctor is the person you should be able to trust the most, and the follow-up scan will hopefully be reassuring!

Best of luck to you!

Hollie on July 27, 2018:

I am 7 weeks tomorrow. I went for an external scan on Monday and saw the heartbeat etc at 6 weeks 3 days.

On Wednesday I started spotting dark brown and light brown ONLY sometimes when I wiped which yesterday become more frequent like a bleed and turned slightly pinker?

I have spoken with my doctor who said since I aren't in any pain and I saw the heartbeat Monday those are both good signs and I am going for a follow up scan Monday but I am really anxious about this bleeding?

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on July 19, 2018:

Precious, it is *probably* "old blood." I suggest you wait a week or so and if you're concerned at that point, see your doctor.

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on July 19, 2018:

Linaea, it *could* be a miscarriage. Talk to your doctor and see about having an ultrasound to determine how to proceed.

Linaea bowen on July 17, 2018:

Hi I am linaea and I just found out that I am pregnant i don't know how far along I am. I just got out of the hospital from a bad car accident and that's when I found out. I am having some light redish pinkish bleeding. And tonight it's kinda dark red with very very little clots does thatean I had a miscarriage? I'm scared and kinda freaking out I need some helpful advice if someone could give me that would be great and very much appreciated thank you

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on July 10, 2018:

If you're worried, see your doctor. Every pregnancy is different, and lack of symptoms may not mean anything. Or it could! It's best to see your doctor with concerns.

Lalaa82 on July 09, 2018:

Hi, I had four miscarriages before and they never knew the reason, but in all them I have been passing pink discharges in the urine. I'm pregnant again and again passing the same pink discharges. Also I am 4w and I don't have any symptoms, usually in my previous pregnancies I had symptoms.

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on June 26, 2018:

Hi Laycie!

If you've passed a clot like that, it's important for you to see your doctor just to get checked again.

Best of luck to you!

Laycie on June 24, 2018:

I'm 6 weeks had an examination due to bleeding to find my cervix closed was a relief, but the next morning I passed a clot that looked like liver, what's going on?

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on June 20, 2018:

Richa, contact your doctor or midwife to confirm whether or not you are pregnant. A blood test is more effective than a urine test.

Good luck!

Richa on June 19, 2018:

I miss my period 15 april n i check but negtive n i get soptting in 8 june now today i check my pregancy be still negtive but i fell i am pregant so what can i do?

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on June 09, 2018:

If you are concerned about any variations in vaginal discharge during pregnancy, please see your doctor.

Help on June 06, 2018:

Doctor please help i'm 9weeks pregnant and i've been puking for 3 weeks straight and everytime that i puke i will get a brown viganal discharge. What should i do?

Erica on June 05, 2018:

Hi I'm 5 week so pregnant and I'm spotting light pink blood i had a miscarriage 7 months ago what do that mean ?

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on June 04, 2018:

Amanda, the best advice I have for you is to check in with your doctor. If the bleeding is still going on, they may want to check.

In my experience, doctors often don't want to look too deeply when there's the possibility of a cut or a scrape, and it sounds like with vaginal suppositories, there may be the chance it's a cut. If it's not heavy, your doctor may not need to see you. Call if you're worried, though!

Amanda on May 31, 2018:

So I am 9 weeks pregnant I have been fine and full symptoms doctor had me on progesterone supplements due to low levels when they were first checked taken vaginally been dealing with constipation and pains from that today out of no where started with very light pink on toilet paper only than after talking to my dr less than an hour later it turned to dark red by only when I peed and a little when I wiped no period like cramping or pains and since after a couple hours seems to be done I try checking inside with toilet paper and feels like I have a cut the dr said it may have happened when placing the medicine or from sex even though the last time was a couple days ago just worried cause I just had a MC at the beginning of the year and had just one cycle before getting pregnant again any advice I worry to easily

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on May 30, 2018:

Lynn, you should call your doctor. Brown blood is usually "old blood" that's been sitting on your cervix, and could be leftover from a period or from intercourse.

Regardless, the best thing you can do for yourself and your pregnancy is to contact your doctor and make an appointment to have everything checked out!

Lynn smith on May 29, 2018:

I'm 8 weeks pregnant. Today when I went to the bathroom I wiped and saw brown blood??

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on May 27, 2018:

I'm so sorry, Maryam. Make sure to follow up with your doctor. He'll tell you the next steps. My heart is with you.

Maryam suleiman on May 27, 2018:

My name is Maryam, i am 35years old, my last cycle was 5th March 2018, discovered I was pregnant 5th April, had my implantation bleeding on 7th April, went for my first scan 12th April, i thought my pregnancy was going normal until weeks later when i though i should be 11weeks so i can start antenatal, 19th at about 3pm i was doing my chores and scrubbing the floor when i started feeling discharge i wiped and saw brown blood, no pains till Monday 21when i was able to see a doctor the doctor to say he cant see baby in the sac in the scan and its 6weeks 2days instead of 11weeks, my cervice has not dilated also. He gave me pregwise and parasitamol, and that i should take some rest till 26th although I couldn't bcus i was all alone and my husband feel I was over exaggerating and didnt want to cook, 26thI decided to visit another hospital the pregnancy test show positive, the a.c. show an unstable fetus, doctor said if, indont don't stop bleeding till 28th he will have to flush my stomach, the bleeding is now with cramps and i expirience it after using hot compress or drinking hot liquid,my legs feel sore and weak, no more pregnancy signs my stomach aches like its been ripped when i Stan I feel weak, i am reducing in weight, i do not see any clots its light bleeding with pains. Am confused i dont know what to think or do. My pastirs are praying for me and i have hope but the pain and bleeding and the no pregnancy symptoms is scaring me. I am not using a pad only tissue to wipe each Time i feel wet. Pls advice

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on May 11, 2018:

Lizzy, the only way to know for certain if you're pregnant is to ask your doctor to test for pregnancy. I understand not wanting to be disappointed, but this is the only way to be certain.

Lizzy on May 10, 2018:

Hi I'm 24yrs old. We are expecting a baby. But unfortunately for past 2yrs we can't able to make it. Bt now 21 days delay for my period. March 23 was my last period till now I don't get it. But today morning I got spotting like light red colour while washing. Sometimes I ll have little stomach cramping also. I really don't know whether I'm pregnant or not? I'm afraid to check because I don't wanna to get disappoint. What should I do now? Please guide me....

Maggie on May 08, 2018:

I liked your article as it seems you have included many cited sources proving the information to be of those who have studied the occurance of intrapartum bleeding. However, I find it extremely concerning that you are giving advice to women experiencing bleeding. In one particular post, a woman is telling you of some light pink spotting and you replied "you are probably in the clear". You, having no medical experience, may want to be careful responding in that way as the woman may now not consult with her physician due to your reassurace. I feel it is irresponsible of you to respond in that way, and I think it may be be safer - if a woman confides in you and says she is bleeding - that you tell every single one of them to consult their doctor. I am a nurse and am currently experiencing bleeding that began as light pink spotting, stopped, and since have had two episodes of bleeding that led to the diagnosis of marginal detachments of placenta. Had I seen my physician when I had the initial potting we may or may not have been able to catch this early and decreased my physical activity preventing further occurance. i hope understand my tone is that's of concern and i think your post will bring reassurance to many women. I just don't want false reassurance to harm a baby and/or mother.

Shaneeka Gray on May 06, 2018:

Me and my boyfriend had sex for the past 2 weeks , my boyfriend cum inside me , can someone tell me , today I noticed something I want to the bathroom and whip my self and I saw light pink blood and brown blood what do that mean

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on May 04, 2018:

I wish I had more words of wisdom. The best advice will always come from your doctor. The waiting game is a killer, though. Best wishes to you!

marie on May 04, 2018:

Hi, I'm 6 weeks 4 days pregnant and just started spotting last night, only when I wiped and it was pink and watery. Called 111 and they told me to keep an eye and if things got worse call them back, they did book me an appointment for Tuesday with Early pregnancy assessment. Woke up this morning and spotting is now enough for a pad and a bit more red, went to A&E and they just said keep an eye on things till Tuesday :-( no cramping but spotting is getting a little more heavy, I'm just panicking so much as I'm 41 and had a miscarriage last year. Any advice?

Williams on April 29, 2018:

Hello,have been having cramps and backache for 2weeks now and I meant to see my period April 24 which I didn't see all the pT I did is nagtive plsss help

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on April 27, 2018:

LillyBreton,

Regardless of whether the spotting is pink or brown, you are probably safe. It's red blood you have to look out for. Some abdominal discomfort is normal throughout pregnancy, starting at implantation.

You're likely just fine!

Best wishes!

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on April 27, 2018:

I'm so sorry, Tutti Fruit. My thoughts and best wishes go with you!

LillyBreton on April 26, 2018:

Would appreciate your perspective. I am 5 weeks 2 days today, confirmed pregnancy test at fertility clinic a week ago. This morning I had pinkish/brown spotting, only visible when I wiped, none on my underwear. This lasted throughout the day, I was neurotically checking all the time with toilet paper. No other concerns really, although I have had twinges in my abdomen, I don't know if I'd even call it cramping, but that has been the case since conception. Called the fertility clinic, they reassured me it's common, and to wait and see if anything changes. May 10th is my first ultrasound at about 7 weeks. Is it normal to not know if the spotting is pink or brown? Also any advice? I am super anxious!

Tutti fruit on April 25, 2018:

Just found out I was pregnant the 20th missed my period the 16th last period o remember was a day of bleeding then nothing I ended up in the hospital last night because of bleeding (which was bright red not that heavy ) slight back pain and cramps not enough to make me uncomfortable am I miss carrying mind u I'm not sure how far along I am.. but my guess would be 3/4weeks...

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on April 21, 2018:

Swa, if you're not filling a pad, you're probably in the clear. I had a full bleed with my last daughter, and she was born healthy seven months later.

Best wishes for a healthy pregnancy!

Swa on April 20, 2018:

Hi.. I am desperate to find help.. this is my first pregnancy and I'm 6 weeks and 6 days pg today.. Last five days I have been experiencing a brown discharge with no pain.. It was just few drops of spotting for couple of days.. then the last three days little more than few drops.. it's not heavy that it soaks my pad.. I had seen my GP and see can do nothing but to comfort me to be positive and wait until Wednesday to have an earlier scan.. I am not able to keep away from thinking if I'm loosing my booba.. Has anyone experienced this before and still had a successful pregnancy?

Jk87 on April 16, 2018:

Hello.

I'm approx 5w6d. I've been lightly bleeding off and for now 5 days, Only noticeable when I use the restroom... Mostly dark red/brown and faint pink if any when wiping ... I've went to pcp who said bleeding is normal and give it a couple days and take another hpt. Tht was day 3 of off and on bleeding... Now at day 5, not bleeding more then I've been and still have multiple positive hpt. Obgyn won't see me until at least 7 wks. I'm terrified. I've Mc at 9 wks 12 years ago but have had two healthy pregnancies since then. I have no pain or discomfort, only breast tenderness and fatigue other then stress I feel fine. Just worried.? Can anyone relate?

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on April 09, 2018:

Pregnancy tests may be less effective in later pregnancy. If you believe you may be four months or more pregnant, you should see your doctor.

Oyin on April 09, 2018:

I have bin spotting with brown blood for the past four months and having pregnancy symptoms but all my test and scan is negative and I feel movement in my Tommy. Please help me am worried.

Cheryl on March 29, 2018:

I am 32 days late...for the past two months i am having pinkish brownish bleeding...when I checked it was at 4 weeks and 8 weeks...all test return negative...what is happening to me

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on March 25, 2018:

lalalollipop,

When is your period due? Some women spot before their period arrives.

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on March 25, 2018:

Roxanne,

It's probably nothing to worry about, but to be on the safe side, you should contact your doctor.

lalalollipop on March 24, 2018:

Hi, so I haven't been getting my period since i've removed my implant 8 months ago and I've been TTC. Earlier this week I noticed spotting thinking it was my period but it went away. I took a pregnancy test this morning and last night and they both came out negative. Is it pregnancy or something else?. My spotting was pinkish. Please help.

Roxanne on March 24, 2018:

Hi I'm 12 weeks I've been spotting pinkish blood the past 3days I'm not experiencing lower abdominal pains is it something to worry about?

Ereyana on March 21, 2018:

I had a implant but I think it broke but I have been having unproctected sex with my partner and I been having a light redish pinkish blood go on for now a couple of days what does that mean

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on March 09, 2018:

Rea, it sounds like you're probably having an atypical (for you) period. If you think you might be pregnant, than my advice is to take a pregnancy test.

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on March 09, 2018:

Recruiter22, you are probably just fine, but it doesn't hurt to give your doctor a call for reassurance! Because you became pregnant via IVF, I'd want to take special precautions.

Rea ramlogan on March 09, 2018:

My last period was feb 09th.tiday I woke up with cramps and light watery spotting.headaches and that's it...please asist

Recruiter22 on March 06, 2018:

Hi I'm almost 6 weeks pregnant and got pregnant through IVF since the day they did the transfer I've had cramping. This week we saw he embryo on the sonogram. The day after I had browning spotting for a few pees (it wasn't a lot barely anything) . I haven't had any since but still have cramping. I have a sink and blood in a few days. I just got nasueas for the first time yesterday but I'm so nervous I'm miscarrying. Anyone have these kind of symptoms and end up ok

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on March 05, 2018:

It's *probably* normal but you'd have to consult with your doctor to be sure. I'd give a call and see if there's any way they'll see you sooner. Many don't like to see women until they are at least six weeks but it won't hurt you to ask!

Courtney on March 02, 2018:

Hi all.

I recently had a baby (2 months ago)... for the last week I've had major bad pains in my lower left abdom , followed by a really bad pain in my shoulder and heading towards my kneck and then yesturday I went for a wee and had brown disgcharge on my underwear and pink blood when wiping. I've had the brain discharge for last 2 days now and only pink blood when I wipe and not wee. I've been feeling sick too.

Does anyone no what's happening? As she m getting a bit worried.

Thank you x

Jyl Zee on February 26, 2018:

Hi all, I see my doc in 2 weeks but I need to ask. I'm 35 I had my first child when I was 19 , I never had the tender Brest or spotting or morning sickness. But I had a miscarriage in Oct n I had all the signs but not spotting. So now I just turned 5 weeks I am just tied n upset tummy. But the other day I started a light pink mix with light brown discharge only when I wipe, it was on n off Afew days. N now I have today will be day 2 of light pink sometimes pink drop red water like flow but only when I wipe. No big omg cramp. Just like oh I think that's a cramp I feel something kinda thing, this normal or bad?

Ess on February 25, 2018:

Hello, I am 4-5 weeks pregnant and hve had brown spotting for the last 5 days. No pain or cramps but my boobs have stopped hurting. I have an appointment with my doctor in two weeks. Should I make an earlier appointment or just wait for 2 weeks, do you think? It might be difficult for me to see doctor any sooner

Mery on February 23, 2018:

I'm 36yo and have been trying to get pg for over a yr. I was due period Monday with nothing so I tested 2 home tests Monday positive, 2 home tests tues positive and urine test at md tues positive. Blood test came back low so md redid labs yesterday but I won't get results until Monday since wknd. I tested day of period due, bc 3 days later we had appt scheduled with fertility md for 1st appt.

I've had mild cramps. No pain, more like queasy type cramps. Tired all the time. And then today at 3pm, wipe very small amt pink blood. Disappeared and then came back at 1030pm with small amt pink blood. Both only when I wipe...none on panties. Earliest OB can see me is Tuesday (4 days away). Im trying not to stress but this is 1st time I've had positive urine tests and period has been over 29 days. (Day 32 now). I'm praying this is normal and not a sign of chemical pregnancy.

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on February 23, 2018:

Usually, but not necessarily. It's important either way to contact your doctor or midwife and get seen as soon as possible! In your shoes I'd check out the emergency room!

Jamie on February 22, 2018:

I'm 11 weeks pregnant. I've had lower back pain for about a week. Today I started bleading bright red blood. After an hour or so the bleading wasn't as bad but still having some. When I went to the bathroom blood also came out when I urinated. If I am having a miscarriage wouldn't I keep having a large amount of blood

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on February 20, 2018:

Best wishes, Kye! I hope your appointment goes well!

Kye on February 20, 2018:

I'm really concerned about spotting. I'm about 7 weeks pregnant. This is my third pregnancy. The first one was blighted, and I miscarried the 2nd time. I had spotting in both so I'm really worried about this time. I already informed the doctor and about it and we're going to find out today what causes the spotting.

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on February 18, 2018:

That's a tough situation, Emily. I know this can be the case with some doctors not wanting to bother with women who are in the early phases of pregnancy.

The good news is that "brown" is usually "old blood" which has been sitting on the cervix. It's not something I would encourage you to worry about, especially since you'll see your midwife on Wednesday (when they will be able to reassure you).

Some discharge is "normal" (in the sense that it's nothing to be alarmed about). Remember that every pregnancy is different, and you might have different experiences with this pregnancy than with your last!

I hope you get the reassurance you need!

Emily on February 18, 2018:

Hi, I'm 25 years old and 6 weeks pregnant today, I'm not due to see my midwife for my first initial booking app until Wednesday however I have no idea how I am going to relax until then. I have a four year old and have never experienced this before, basically for around a week now every other day a different colour discharge or blood is leaving me when I wipe,today however after a session at the gym I discovered a brown discharge which is what I usually see before I have my period, I don't know who to speak to as my doctor basically told me last week that they don't be really care about anyone under 12 weeks ( in so many words ) and I'm not sure my epu is self referral x

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on February 14, 2018:

Because of your age I'd call just for the comfort of reassurance. Light pink probably isn't anything to worry about, but it's better to reassure yourself than not!

Bellybeans mom on February 13, 2018:

This is my first pregnancy and because I am 39 I am considered "high risk". I experienced some light pinkish spotting a couple of weeks ago and got really nervous but when I went for an ultrasound last week, the baby's heartbeat was fine and it seemed all was well. Last night I used the bathroom and wiped and saw the light pinkish spotting again but this morning I didn't see any; however, later in the day it came back. I don't have my appointment with my OB for another 3 weeks. Should I call and inform the nurse or just wait to see if anything else is going to happen?

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on February 08, 2018:

Probably NOT a symptom of pregnancy based on how close you are to your next period. Some women (myself included) spot before their periods arrive.

It's NOT too early to test though, so I'd go ahead and do that if I was you.

Good luck!

SheenaC on February 08, 2018:

Now my lower back hurts, my ankles are slightly swelling, and having chest pains. My period is not due for a couple of days, so I decided I would wait and rest before I tested.

SheenaC on February 07, 2018:

I spotted 2/4/2018 it was red only when I wiped for like an hour. It was light and never touched my pad. Then turned brown for like 10 min and went off. My last period was 1/12/2018. I have slight cramping off and on this week, but that's it. Is this an early pregnancy symptom?

Becki Rizzuti (author) from Central Indiana on February 05, 2018:

See your doctor. This doesn't sound like pregnancy to me (it's not likely with your tubes tied and you wouldn't have pregnancy symptoms until after implantation (about ten days after ovulation).

These symptoms could point to a variety of problems your OB/GYN should look out for, so please make an appointment!

Jessica Ivy30 on February 05, 2018:

My husband and I had intercourse on my most fertile days. I've had my tubes tied back in 2016. After we had intercourse a couple of days later I woke up feeling nauseous and been vomiting, but mostly nauseous. I've been nauseous and vomiting going on 3 weeks now. This past Friday night I started to bleed.

Now my period wasn't due yet. My period is regular! I've had no problems with my period until this past Friday. It started out light pink on the tissue. Then it turned red but not dark red. I know there is a difference in my bleeding.

When I pee the blood is light pink in the toilet. The toilet would normally be full of blood when I'm on my period. But it's been light pink. I have blood clots here and there but nothing like my regular period. My pad hasn't been full of blood. I took 2 pregnancy test and they were negative.

But the blood isn't flowing like how it normally would. I realize I've been feeling bloated. And my stomach started to get a little bigger. Since I became nauseous and vomiting. If I am pregnant I would only be 3 weeks and 5 days. The day of ovulation I woke up feeling nauseous. My period is due this week. I'm still bleeding today, but nothing hasn't change, it's still light pink after I pee in the toilet. Blood clots here and there, nothing like my normal period.

Can you please help me! My husband and I had a total of 4 dreams of me being pregnant last month. He had 2 and I had 2. In one of my dreams I had a girl, and in one of his dreams I had a boy. I also had a dream last night of me being pregnant. Can you please tell me something!!! My cramps were mild.

Can I Still Be Pregnant After Heavy Bleeding and Clots

Source: https://wehavekids.com/having-baby/bleeding-during-pregnancy

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