Passing a blood clot during pregnancy can be a frightening experience, often leading to immediate concern about the health of the pregnancy. While alarming, it is possible to pass a clot and still have a healthy, continuing pregnancy. Any instance of bleeding, especially if accompanied by clots, warrants prompt medical consultation to determine the cause.
Understanding Clots and Bleeding in Pregnancy
A blood clot forms when blood changes from a liquid into a solid, a natural process to stop bleeding. During pregnancy, the body undergoes changes in its clotting factors, which increase the tendency for blood to clot as a protective measure against excessive blood loss during childbirth. Vaginal bleeding can vary in appearance, ranging from light spotting to heavier flows that may include blood clots. Clots can appear as reddish, jelly-like masses, sometimes ranging in size from a dime to a lemon.
Blood and clotting can occur due to various physiological adjustments within the pregnant body. Increased blood flow to the cervix and uterus can make these areas more sensitive and prone to minor bleeding. This heightened sensitivity means that even routine activities or examinations can sometimes lead to a small amount of bleeding.
Non-Threatening Reasons for Clots
Several common and non-serious reasons can lead to bleeding and small clots during pregnancy. Implantation bleeding, which occurs when the fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining, can cause light bleeding or spotting and may include very small clots. This usually happens around 6 to 12 days after conception and is generally lighter and shorter than a typical menstrual period.
Cervical changes are a frequent cause of bleeding. The cervix becomes more sensitive and vascular during pregnancy due to increased blood supply. Intercourse or a pelvic examination can irritate the cervix, leading to light bleeding and potentially small clots. A subchorionic hematoma, a collection of blood between the uterine wall and the gestational sac, can also result in bleeding and clots. Small subchorionic hematomas often resolve without causing complications for the pregnancy.
Concerning Reasons for Clots
While many instances of clotting are not serious, some can indicate a significant concern for the pregnancy. Miscarriage often involves vaginal bleeding with cramping and blood clots and tissue. The clots associated with miscarriage can be larger and may include grayish or white tissue. An ectopic pregnancy, where the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, typically in a fallopian tube, can also cause bleeding and abdominal cramping, sometimes with clots. This condition is a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment.
Placental issues represent a category of serious concerns. Placental abruption occurs when the placenta separates from the uterine wall before delivery, which can lead to significant bleeding, abdominal pain, and clots. Bleeding might be visible or internal, with severity depending on the separation’s extent. Placenta previa, a condition where the placenta partially or completely covers the cervix, can also cause bleeding, particularly in the later stages of pregnancy. These conditions can interrupt the baby’s oxygen and nutrient supply, necessitating immediate medical attention.
Immediate Actions and Medical Evaluation
If you pass a blood clot during pregnancy, contact a healthcare provider immediately. It is helpful to describe the clot’s characteristics, such as its size, color, and frequency, along with any accompanying symptoms like pain, dizziness, or fever. Wearing a pad can help track the amount and type of bleeding for your medical provider.
Upon medical evaluation, your healthcare provider will perform various tests to determine the bleeding’s cause and assess pregnancy viability. A physical examination, including a pelvic exam, helps identify the source of bleeding. An ultrasound scan is commonly used to visualize the uterus, placenta, and fetus, allowing for the detection of issues like subchorionic hematomas or placental abnormalities. Blood tests, including human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels, may be performed to monitor pregnancy progression or assess for complications. It is important to avoid self-diagnosing and instead rely on professional medical guidance for accurate assessment and appropriate management.