Managing Early Pregnancy Bleeding: Concerns and Solutions - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Early pregnancy, continuous bleeding?


Hello Dr.
Huang: I am currently over 8 weeks pregnant and have been experiencing intermittent bleeding since about a week after discovering my pregnancy.
I have been receiving progesterone injections and taking progesterone pills, but the situation has not improved.
An abdominal ultrasound revealed blood clots in the uterus and a fibroid approximately 5 centimeters in size.
The doctor informed me that this is the main cause of the bleeding.
I would like to ask what else I can do besides bed rest.
Given my situation, what is the likelihood of my baby being born safely? Additionally, last week I suspected that I caught the flu from my son, and the doctor prescribed Oseltamivir for me.
After some discussion and hesitation, I took the medication as prescribed.
Can you please confirm that Oseltamivir will not have any adverse effects on the baby? Thank you.

Miss Hsieh, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/08/23

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Currently, I am over 8 weeks pregnant.
Since about a week after discovering the pregnancy, I have been experiencing intermittent bleeding.
I have received progesterone injections and taken progesterone medication, but the situation persists.
An abdominal ultrasound revealed blood clots in the uterus and a fibroid approximately 5 centimeters in size.
The doctor informed me that this is the main cause of the bleeding.

1.
I would like to ask what I can do at this stage besides bed rest?
Answer: Progesterone injections, progesterone medication, and bed rest.
2.
Given my situation, what is the likelihood of my baby being born safely?
Answer: 50%.
3.
Last week, I suspected that I caught the flu from my son.
The doctor prescribed antiviral medication (Oseltamivir) for me.
After much discussion and struggle, I obediently completed the medication.
I would like to know if Oseltamivir really has no impact on the baby?
Answer: Oseltamivir will not have an impact on the baby.

Reply Date: 2017/08/23

More Info


Managing early pregnancy bleeding can be a concerning experience for many expectant mothers. It is essential to understand the potential causes, risks, and management strategies to ensure both maternal and fetal health.
In your case, you are currently 8 weeks pregnant and have experienced intermittent bleeding since about a week after discovering your pregnancy. The presence of blood clots and a fibroid in your uterus, as identified through ultrasound, can indeed be contributing factors to the bleeding. It is not uncommon for women to experience some bleeding in early pregnancy, which can be due to various reasons, including implantation bleeding, hormonal changes, or more serious conditions such as threatened miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.

1. Understanding the Causes of Bleeding:
- Implantation Bleeding: This can occur when the fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining, usually around the time of your expected period.

- Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels can lead to spotting or light bleeding.

- Subchorionic Hemorrhage: This is a collection of blood between the uterine wall and the chorion (the outer fetal membrane), which can cause bleeding.

- Fibroids: Uterine fibroids can also contribute to bleeding during pregnancy, particularly if they are located near the placenta.

2. Management Strategies:
- Rest: While bed rest is often recommended, it is essential to balance rest with light activity as advised by your healthcare provider. Prolonged bed rest is not always necessary and can sometimes lead to other complications.

- Hydration and Nutrition: Staying well-hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet can support your overall health during this time.

- Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider are crucial. They may recommend additional ultrasounds to monitor the status of the pregnancy and any bleeding.

- Medications: You mentioned receiving progesterone injections and taking oral progesterone. These medications are often prescribed to help support the pregnancy, especially if there is a risk of miscarriage.

3. Risks and Prognosis:
- The likelihood of a successful pregnancy can vary based on the underlying cause of the bleeding. If the bleeding is due to a benign cause, such as a fibroid or implantation bleeding, the chances of carrying the pregnancy to term can be quite good. However, if there are more serious concerns, such as a significant threat of miscarriage, the risks may be higher.

- It is essential to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your concerns and any symptoms you experience, such as increased bleeding or severe cramping.

4. Medication Safety:
- Regarding the antiviral medication you took for flu (克流感), it is generally considered safe during pregnancy, especially when prescribed by a healthcare provider. However, it is always best to discuss any medications you take during pregnancy with your doctor to ensure they are appropriate for your specific situation.

5. Monitoring Symptoms:
- Keep an eye on any changes in your symptoms. If you experience heavy bleeding, severe abdominal pain, or any other concerning symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

In summary, while early pregnancy bleeding can be alarming, many women go on to have healthy pregnancies despite experiencing it. Continuous communication with your healthcare provider, adherence to prescribed treatments, and monitoring your symptoms are key to managing your situation effectively. Remember, every pregnancy is unique, and your healthcare provider is your best resource for personalized advice and care.

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