How dangerous is spotting?

As a rule, most bleeding is harmless in the first weeks of pregnancy. Hormone fluctuations in the first trimester of pregnancy that lead to bleeding are not an indication that the pregnancy is at risk. Implantation bleeding is also harmless and is more likely to confirm the progress of the pregnancy.

The situation is different for spotting bleeding that occurs in the course of extrauterine pregnancies. Depending on where the ovum is implanted, the growth of the fruit can cause the fallopian tubes to burst or the uterus to tear. These complications can then be associated with life-threatening bleeding.

The embryo must therefore be removed in a surgical procedure. Smear bleeding, especially in connection with cramping abdominal pain, can be an indication of an abortion. Especially in the first weeks, spontaneous abortions are not uncommon. Often these are hardly noticed by women and appear to be menstrual bleeding. However, if remnants of the embryo or placenta remain in the abdominal cavity, infections can occur, which can then pose a danger to those affected.

When should I go to the doctor in case of spotting?

Even though most bleeding is harmless, the treating physician should be contacted for each bleeding. The doctor can give advice and, if necessary, perform further tests to rule out infection, miscarriage or extrauterine pregnancy.In addition to a physical examination, he can, for example, also perform an ultrasound to see if the baby is safe and in the right place. If the bleeding is accompanied by pain or cramps, a gynecologist should be consulted immediately.

Duration of spotting during pregnancy

Depending on the cause of the smear bleeding, this can also take different lengths of time. As a rule, harmless spotting is rather easy and only lasts a short time. Under the influence of cyclone hormones, the bleeding can last for a few days; in the case of implantation bleeding, the bleeding lasts one to two days. In the case of infections, miscarriages and extrauterine pregnancies, the bleeding duration can vary greatly from a few hours to several days.