Noticing blood in your saliva can be unsettling, especially during pregnancy. While concerning, it is often a common occurrence and usually indicates a benign issue. Understanding the potential reasons can help alleviate worry and guide you on when to seek professional advice.
Hormonal Changes and Your Gums
During pregnancy, the body undergoes significant hormonal shifts, particularly increases in progesterone and estrogen. These changes directly influence oral tissues, making gums more sensitive and prone to inflammation. This often leads to pregnancy gingivitis, where gums may appear swollen, red, and bleed easily, especially during brushing or flossing.
Hormone levels also increase blood flow throughout the body, including to gum tissues. This increased blood supply contributes to gum swelling and tenderness, making them more susceptible to bleeding with minimal irritation. For some, these hormonal influences can lead to benign growths on the gums, sometimes called “pregnancy tumors” or pyogenic granulomas. These growths are highly vascular and bleed easily due to their rich blood supply.
Beyond Hormones Other Oral Factors
While hormonal changes are a significant factor, other oral health issues can also contribute to blood in saliva. Pre-existing gum disease, such as periodontitis, can worsen during pregnancy if not properly managed, leading to increased bleeding and potential damage to the supporting structures of the teeth. Periodontitis involves inflammation and infection that can destroy the bone and soft tissues around the teeth.
Aggressive brushing or flossing techniques can cause gum irritation and bleeding. Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or applying too much force can damage delicate gum tissue. Untreated tooth decay or ill-fitting dental appliances, like partial dentures, can also irritate gums and cause bleeding.
Sources From Outside the Mouth
Sometimes, blood in saliva originates from areas outside the mouth. Nosebleeds are more common during pregnancy due to increased blood volume and fragile blood vessels in the nasal passages. Blood from a nosebleed can drip down the back of the throat and mix with saliva.
Frequent vomiting, a common symptom of morning sickness, can contribute to this. Strong stomach acid in vomit can irritate the esophagus and throat, causing minor abrasions or bleeding that mixes with saliva. Similarly, acid reflux can cause irritation and minor bleeding in the throat or esophagus, manifesting as blood in the saliva.
Knowing When to Seek Advice
While occasional blood in saliva during pregnancy is often benign, certain signs indicate professional evaluation is needed. Persistent or heavy bleeding from the gums or mouth warrants a dental visit for assessment and care. If bleeding is accompanied by significant pain, swelling, or signs of infection like fever or pus, prompt medical attention is needed.
Any lumps or sores in the mouth that do not heal within a couple of weeks should be examined by a dentist or healthcare provider. If blood in saliva is coupled with other concerning systemic symptoms, such as dizziness, weakness, or unexplained bruising, consult a doctor to rule out broader health issues. Timely advice ensures potential complications are addressed.
Maintaining Oral Health During Pregnancy
Maintaining diligent oral hygiene practices throughout pregnancy is important for managing and preventing oral bleeding. Gently brushing your teeth twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste removes plaque without irritating sensitive gums. Daily flossing removes food particles and plaque from between teeth and along the gumline.
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are recommended during pregnancy, as professional cleaning removes hardened plaque and tartar that at-home brushing cannot. Rinsing with a warm salt water solution can help soothe irritated gums and reduce inflammation. Staying well-hydrated and maintaining a balanced, nutrient-rich diet also supports overall oral health and gum tissue integrity.