NHS Forth Valley – Bleeding in Early Pregnancy

Bleeding in early pregnancy can cause significant worry. This page provides advice and information about what to do if you experience bleeding early in your pregnancy, answering common questions you may have.

Bleeding is fairly common and can sometimes indicate a miscarriage, but pregnancies may also continue unharmed.

Causes of Bleeding in Early Pregnancy

Normal pregnancy: Bleeding may occur when the pregnancy implants in the womb.
Threatened miscarriage: You may be at risk of miscarrying.
Ectopic pregnancy: The pregnancy may be outside the womb.
Cervical bleeding: Bleeding may come from the neck of the womb (cervix).
Unknown cause: Sometimes, the cause is never found. In many cases, bleeding stops spontaneously and the pregnancy continues as normal.

What Should I Do If I Notice Bleeding?

Under 14 Weeks

Phone the Early Pregnancy Assessment Service (EPAS) on 01324 567119. EPAS is available for pregnant women between 6 & 14 weeks who have bleeding or abdominal pain.

Under 6 Weeks

Phone EPAS for telephone advice on 01324 567119. Appointments are not routinely arranged if you are under 6 weeks, as light bleeding is common and it is usually too early for a scan.

Over 14 Weeks

Phone Maternity Triage on 01324 567098.

Early Pregnancy Assessment Service (EPAS)

You will be seen at the next available appointment, usually within 72 hours.
If bleeding is very heavy or abdominal pain is severe, you will be referred directly to Gynaecology inpatient ward (Ward 6).

Attending Your Appointment

You may bring someone with you, but only one person is permitted in the scan room.
Be mindful if bringing small children, as there may be a wait.

Who Will See Me?

You will be seen by a nurse, with access to medical staff if necessary.

Consultation and Examination

You will be asked about your symptoms, last period, and medical history.
A vaginal examination may be carried out to see where the bleeding is coming from. This will not cause miscarriage.

Tests

Urine sample to confirm pregnancy.
Test for chlamydia may be offered.
Blood tests to check blood group and/or pregnancy hormone levels.

Ultrasound Scan

Most women are offered a transvaginal scan (probe gently inserted in vagina) or a transabdominal scan (probe placed over abdomen). Both are safe and will not cause miscarriage.
A repeat scan may be necessary after 14 days if the pregnancy is very small or not seen.

If You Are Having a Miscarriage

Threatened miscarriage: Bleeding or cramping in a continuing pregnancy.
Incomplete miscarriage: Some pregnancy tissue remains in the womb.
Complete miscarriage: All pregnancy tissue has passed and the womb is empty.
Delayed/missed/silent miscarriage: Pregnancy has stopped developing but is still inside the womb (diagnosed on scan).

Is It Always Possible to Give an Answer at the First Visit?

Not always. It depends on findings and how many weeks pregnant you are.
You may be asked to return for a repeat scan or have a blood test.
Blood test results are usually available within 24 hours and will be explained by phone.

If Your Scan Is Fine

Make an appointment to see the midwife at your GP practice if you have not already.
Keep any appointments you have already made.

If You Bleed Again

There may be some bleeding seen inside the womb at your first scan, which may take time to pass.
If bleeding becomes heavier than a normal period or is fresh and red, contact staff for advice.

Does Bleeding Affect the Baby?

No. If your scan is OK, there is no increased risk to the baby.

Have I Done Anything to Cause the Bleeding?

No. Bleeding is not caused by anything you have done, even if you have had a miscarriage. Most miscarriages occur due to reasons that cannot be prevented.

Can I Have Sex?

It is advised not to have sex while bleeding, but it will not cause harm after bleeding has stopped.

Contact Details

Early Pregnancy Assessment Service (EPAS):
Forth Valley Royal Hospital
Phone: 01324 567119
Maternity Triage:
Forth Valley Royal Hospital
Phone: 01324 567098
Ward 6:
Forth Valley Royal Hospital
Phone: 01324 566390

Should I Stay Off Work?

This depends on the severity of bleeding, how you feel emotionally, or if you are having treatment.
If off for 3 – 7 days, you require a self-certificate from your employer.
If off longer, contact your GP for a sick line if necessary.