Vaginal bleeding in pregnancy is a common symptom and can range from spotting to heavy bleeding. The underlying cause varies with the timing of the bleeding during the 9 month term.

Causes for vaginal bleeding in pregnancy:

• Threatened miscarriage
• Early on may cause spotting that can later become heavy
• Usually occurs prior to the 20th week of pregnancy
• Ectopic pregnancy
• May be light or heavy, but usually occurs prior to the 12th week of pregnancy
• Placenta previa
• A serious condition that usually causes heavy vaginal bleeding after the 25th week of pregnancy.
• Placental abruption
• A serious condition that usually causes heavy vaginal bleeding after the 25th week of pregnancy.