When you have unprotected sex, health issues notwithstanding, there is a chance of pregnancy. However, when you still have your period after sexual intercourse, it’s important to understand that this typically means you did not get pregnant. The menstrual cycle starting indicates that pregnancy did not occur. This is because the egg is absorbed back into the body and the thick uterine lining is shed, causing bleeding.
But, it is also important to understand that some bleeding may occur during pregnancy as well and to know the differences.
Regular Period vs. Vaginal Bleeding During Pregnancy
When your period begins, you will typically experience all the usual symptoms associated with a regular menstrual cycle. Whether light bleeding or heavy vaginal bleeding, the shedding of the uterine wall during your period will cause bleeding to occur.
But, bleeding alone does not necessarily mean you are not pregnant. During a study of over 600 pregnant women, 21% of them had some vaginal bleeding before 20 weeks of pregnancy. Those who experience bleeding during pregnancy often have it occur outside of the regular period, although it can also happen during the normal window.
So, how do you know the difference between the two? The main difference between period bleeding or implantation bleeding often comes from the timeline of the bleeding and the amount. When you get pregnant, bleeding usually occurs as spotting, with smaller amounts of blood in an infrequent or short period of time. Bleeding from a period, by comparison, is much more regular, in a greater amount than spotting. But, every person experiences things differently, so, if you’re still unsure of the difference, then it’s always best to consult with a medical professional to confirm.
Bleeding from Ectopic Pregnancy
Unfortunately, from time to time, bleeding from pregnancy could require medical attention. When you get pregnant and a fertilized egg attaches to the fallopian tubes instead of the wall of the uterus, an ectopic pregnancy occurs. As the fertilized egg continues to grow, it eventually can cause a life-threatening tube rupture.
So, it’s important to catch an ectopic pregnancy early if you can. Any amount of spotting after missing a period can be a sign to discuss things further with your medical professional. Often, the first warning signs of an ectopic pregnancy are light vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain. Bleeding from pregnancy can be a completely normal occurrence, but it’s always best to get looked at by a medical professional to make sure everything with a pregnancy is proceeding safely.
If you suspect any of these warning signs, it’s best to schedule with a medical professional to get evaluated. If signs point to an ectopic pregnancy, then you will likely have to schedule a transvaginal ultrasound. This ultrasound helps your doctor to see the exact location of your pregnancy, giving them the information they need to provide an accurate diagnosis and give you any necessary treatment.
Menstrual Cycles Info with Alternatives Care Centers
Whether you need more information about understanding your menstrual cycle or want to know more on pregnancy and what to expect, the team at Alternatives Care Centers are here to help. With free pregnancy testing, educational classes, and more, we’ll help you better understand pregnancy, provide resources for parenting where we can, and ensure you and any potential new additions to your family get the care that they deserve.
Alternatives Care Centers provides help, support, and community referral to ensure a safer, kinder experience during life’s important moments. Some of these services include pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, abortion recovery, men’s services, and more. We provide each with care and attention so anyone coming to us for assistance feels welcome and cared for.
Give us a call today to learn more!
Resources:
Incidence and outcome of bleeding before the 20th week of pregnancy: prospective study from general practice
https://www.bmj.com/content/315/7099/32.short
Bleeding During Pregnancy
https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/bleeding-during-pregnancy/basics/causes/sym-20050636?p=1#:~:text=Vaginal%20bleeding%20during%20pregnancy%20can,on%20to%20deliver%20healthy%20babies.
Overview of ectopic pregnancy diagnosis, management, and innovation
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10071153/
Ectopic Pregnancy
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ectopic-pregnancy/symptoms-causes/syc-20372088
