Early pregnancy bleeding
The last menstrual period was on July 19.
In August, there was no menstruation until a pregnancy test on August 23 confirmed pregnancy.
However, there has been continuous bleeding, resembling brown discharge, since the test.
Hospital examinations have not detected the embryo in the initial scans.
Both the first and second ultrasounds showed it was too small to confirm whether it was an embryo.
This week, an ultrasound showed a measurement of only 0.29 cm, and it is still uncertain if it is indeed an embryo.
Blood tests are being conducted, and the hormone levels are continuously rising.
I am taking medications to support the pregnancy and folic acid, but the bleeding persists without abdominal pain.
Is it possible for the baby to be retained? Is this related to my job, as I sit for at least 6 hours a day on a high stool?
Wen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/09/08
Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello Ms.
Wen: The chances of retaining the baby are about fifty-fifty, so there's no need to worry too much.
Just follow your doctor's instructions and have regular check-ups.
I hope you can approach this with a calm mindset, as some miscarriages are due to chromosomal abnormalities in the baby, which cannot be prevented.
The bleeding you are experiencing is likely not significantly related to your work.
Reply Date: 2016/09/08
More Info
Early pregnancy bleeding can be a concerning symptom for many expectant mothers, and understanding its implications is crucial for both maternal and fetal health. Based on your situation, where you have experienced continuous brownish bleeding since your positive pregnancy test, and the ultrasound findings have been inconclusive regarding the presence of a viable embryo, it is essential to approach this matter with caution and awareness.
Firstly, it is important to recognize that bleeding in early pregnancy can occur for various reasons. Some of the common causes include implantation bleeding, which is generally harmless and occurs when the fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. However, other causes can be more serious, such as a threatened miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or even a molar pregnancy. Given that your ultrasound has shown a very small embryo and that you have been experiencing bleeding, it is critical to follow up closely with your healthcare provider.
The fact that you have been prescribed medications to support your pregnancy, such as progesterone (often referred to as "安胎" in Chinese), indicates that your healthcare provider is taking your symptoms seriously. Progesterone is commonly used to help maintain the uterine lining and support early pregnancy, especially in cases where there is a risk of miscarriage. Additionally, the fact that your blood levels are being monitored and are rising is a positive sign, as this suggests that the pregnancy hormone (hCG) is increasing, which is typically a good indicator of a developing pregnancy.
Regarding your question about whether your job, which involves sitting for long periods, could be affecting your pregnancy, it is generally advised that pregnant women maintain a healthy lifestyle, which includes regular movement and avoiding prolonged periods of inactivity. While sitting for extended periods is not directly linked to miscarriage, it can contribute to discomfort and other issues such as swelling or blood clots. It may be beneficial to take short breaks to stand, stretch, and move around periodically throughout your workday.
As for the bleeding itself, while it is concerning, many women experience some form of bleeding in early pregnancy and go on to have healthy pregnancies. The absence of abdominal pain is also a positive sign, as pain often indicates a more serious issue. However, continuous monitoring through ultrasounds and blood tests is essential to ensure that the pregnancy is progressing as it should.
In summary, while early pregnancy bleeding can be alarming, it does not always indicate a problem. It is crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider, adhere to their recommendations, and attend all follow-up appointments. They will be able to provide the best guidance based on your specific situation and the results of your tests. Additionally, if you experience any new symptoms, such as increased bleeding, severe pain, or any other concerning signs, you should seek medical attention immediately. Remember to take care of yourself, both physically and emotionally, during this time, as stress can also impact your well-being and that of your developing baby.
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