So your pregnancy test comes back positive… but you’re bleeding like it’s your period. Although this can be alarming, it isn’t always a cause for concern.
Read on to learn why bleeding can happen in early pregnancy, when you should speak with your doctor, and how to manage your stress levels during this emotional time.
How Accurate Are At-Home Pregnancy Tests?
If your pregnancy test comes back positive - but you’re bleeding like you’re on your period - you may be wondering how accurate pregnancy tests really are.
The truth is that at-home pregnancy tests are very accurate. In fact, when used correctly, they are estimated to be around 99% accurate at detecting pregnancy. So if you’ve taken a pregnancy test and your results were positive, it’s highly likely that you are pregnant.
It’s important to note though that (although rare) false positives do happen and can be caused by:
- Residual hCG from a recent pregnancy
- Fertility medications containing hCG
- Human error - misinterpreting the results
- Expired or damaged test
On the flip side, it is also possible to receive a negative result even though you are technically pregnant. False negatives can be caused by:
- Testing too soon
- Diluted hCG levels (for example, from testing too late in the day or testing after drinking a lot of water)
- Saturated hCG levels - known as the hook effect
- Human error - misinterpreting the results
- Expired or damaged test
If you have taken multiple at-home pregnancy tests but you’re still unsure about your results, it’s worth going into your doctor’s office for a blood test. This is the most accurate way to confirm pregnancy.
To learn more about false positives, false negatives, and interpreting your results, check out our article Decoding Pregnancy Test Results.
Causes of Bleeding During Early Pregnancy
Implantation Bleeding
Implantation bleeding is a specific type of light bleeding or spotting that can occur when a fertilized egg implants itself in the uterus, with the process starting as early as six days after ovulation. An estimated 25% of pregnant individuals experience implantation bleeding - making it a normal occurrence but not necessarily common in all pregnancies.
There are a number of different calculators and online tools that can help estimate when implantation has taken place. However, these calculators are often based on 28-day cycles and the assumption that implantation occurs nine days after ovulation/fertilization.
For a more realistic estimation, it’s a good idea to keep track of key markers each cycle - such as your period, fertile window, and day of ovulation. If you know the date that ovulation occurred, you can then estimate that implantation can happen as early as six days later.
At Mira, we know that pinpointing ovulation can be a challenge - but the Mira Monitor can help! Together with the Mira App, you can both predict and confirm ovulation - making it easy to determine what type of spotting you’re experiencing throughout your fertility journey.
Miscarriage
Another potential cause of vaginal bleeding in early pregnancy is miscarriage. In the event of a miscarriage, it’s normal to experience anything from light spotting to heavy bleeding. In terms of color, discharge may be pink, red, or brown.
It’s important to remember that the majority of miscarriages cannot be prevented. However, the risk of miscarriage can be reduced by:
- Avoiding toxic substances such as tobacco, alcohol, and drugs
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Attending all appointments with a doctor and/or midwife
Taking a prenatal vitamin is also crucial in early pregnancy, with research showing that they prevent birth defects, support fetal growth and development, and reduce the risk of pregnancy complications. Mira’s own prenatal multivitamin contains all the essential vitamins necessary for a healthy pregnancy - with key ingredients including folate (supports brain and spinal cord development), iron (supports placenta and fetal development), and vitamin B6 (boosts progesterone and relieves tension).
Ectopic Pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants itself outside of the uterus - instead of within the uterine lining. One of the primary symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy is vaginal bleeding that looks similar to a menstrual period. Brown, watery discharge is also common.
Ectopic pregnancies can be potentially life-threatening and must be treated by a doctor with medication or surgery.
Subchorionic Hematoma
A subchorionic hematoma (sometimes referred to as a subchorionic hemorrhage) is a pool of blood that forms between the membrane surrounding the embryo and the uterine wall. When this occurs, it may cause vaginal bleeding.
Subchorionic hematomas will sometimes resolve on their own over time, however, they can also increase the risk of miscarriage and preterm delivery. Because they can lead to pregnancy complications in some cases, subchorionic hematomas must be closely monitored and treated by a doctor.
Hormonal Changes and Breakthrough Bleeding
The body undergoes a lot of physical and hormonal changes in early pregnancy, and these changes may cause some light breakthrough bleeding. In fact, it’s estimated that 20-30% of pregnant individuals experience breakthrough bleeding at some point during early pregnancy.
If you do experience some bleeding in early pregnancy - don’t panic! Simply notify your doctor and they can assess your symptoms and conduct further testing if needed.
Other Possible Causes
Other possible causes of vaginal bleeding during early pregnancy include:
- Cervical irritation - the cervix can be extra sensitive during pregnancy and bleed after a pelvic exam, ultrasound, or intercourse.
- Infections - certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and urinary tract infections (UTIs) can cause spotting.
Remember - only a doctor can diagnose and treat vaginal bleeding. If you are concerned about the health of your pregnancy, make sure to speak with your doctor right away. They can provide you with the very best advice for your situation.
When to Seek Medical Help for Bleeding in Early Pregnancy
Scenario 1: If you experience light bleeding and/or spotting that lasts for 24 hours or less, simply make a note of the date and your symptoms. You should then notify your doctor about the bleeding as soon as possible.
Scenario 2: If light bleeding and/or spotting lasts longer than 24 hours, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Scenario 3: If bleeding is moderate to heavy and/or is accompanied by symptoms of pelvic pain, abdominal pain, cramping, fever, chills, or dizziness, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
If you are in scenario 2 or 3 and your healthcare provider’s office is closed, seek advice from the nearest emergency room or urgent care center. It is important to get treatment as soon as possible in order to protect the health of the pregnancy.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Period-like bleeding during early pregnancy can feel overwhelming, and unfortunately, it may take some time for your doctor to figure out the underlying cause.
To help ease your concerns, here’s a brief overview of what the diagnosis and treatment process could look like:
- Diagnostic testing - Your doctor will likely want to conduct a vaginal examination and if necessary, an ultrasound scan. Your pregnancy hormones may also need to be checked with a blood test.
- Treatment - Treatment will vary depending on the underlying cause of bleeding. For example, if the pregnancy is ectopic, medication or surgery will be required. Alternatively, if there are no apparent signs that the pregnancy is at risk, your doctor may still recommend that you get some extra rest and take a break from any strenuous physical activities (such as sex or exercise).
- Monitoring and follow-up - In the days following your appointment with your doctor, it’s important to stay in tune with your body and track your symptoms. If your symptoms worsen, contact your doctor again immediately and they can advise on what to do next.
Remember - when it comes to pregnancy, no question is too big or too small! In addition to tracking your symptoms at home, aim to keep an open dialogue with your healthcare provider to ensure that you receive timely care for your pregnancy.
Managing Anxiety and Stress During Pregnancy
Pregnancy is an exciting time - but it can also be an incredibly stressful and emotional time as well. If you are anxious about your pregnancy or struggling to manage your stress levels, here are a few practical tips to bear in mind:
- Stay active - Moderate-intensity exercise during pregnancy (unless your doctor advises otherwise) is great for relieving tension, boosting happy hormones, and helping you sleep at night.
- Prioritize activities you enjoy - Reading, drawing, visiting museums - whatever you enjoy doing, do it! Hobbies serve as an excellent distraction from worries, and they also help to boost our mood.
- Don’t compare yourself to others - Every pregnancy is unique, so try to keep the focus on yours and try not to compare your progress to others.
- Seek community support - The Maternal Mental Health Alliance, the Maternal and Child Help Hotline, and Motherly are excellent community resources to have on hand for times when you may be feeling isolated.
We know there is a lot to juggle before, during, and after pregnancy. No matter where you are in your fertility journey, our expert fertility coaches are also here to support you! From reviewing your hormone charts to advising on supplements and lifestyle choices, our coaches provide you with an emotionally safe place to discuss your pregnancy and fertility.
Final Thoughts
Bleeding while pregnant can be such a scary experience and the worst thing you can do in this situation is panic or jump to conclusions. Instead, call your doctor straight away - they can assess your symptoms and provide the best guidance and course of action for your pregnancy.
Frequently Asked Questions
When to take a pregnancy test after implantation bleeding?
What is a chemical pregnancy?
If you are pregnant do you bleed?
However, moderate to heavy bleeding is not considered normal anytime during pregnancy and may indicate that the pregnancy is at risk. If you are currently pregnant and experiencing abnormal bleeding, seek advice from your healthcare provider immediately.
