Can You Still Have Your Period if You're Pregnant? Causes & What It Means
Pregnancy can bring many changes, and with those changes often come questions. One that many young women and even older women ask is ‘Is it possible to be on periods while pregnant? We are usually taught that periods stop once pregnancy begins, as the body no longer prepares for a new menstrual cycle. However, some women share experiences of bleeding during pregnancy, which can lead to confusion and worry. Is it possible to menstruate while pregnant? Or is this something else entirely?
Understanding the difference between a regular period and other forms of bleeding is important. In this article, we’ll gently explore whether periods during pregnancy are medically possible, what such bleeding might mean, and when to seek help—so you feel informed, supported, and empowered in your journey.
Can you get your periods when pregnant?
The short answer is no—you cannot have a true period when pregnant. A menstrual period occurs when the uterus sheds its lining because fertilisation hasn’t taken place. However, some women may experience bleeding during pregnancy, which can sometimes be mistaken for a period. This bleeding could be due to implantation, hormonal changes, or other underlying reasons.
So, can you be on periods while pregnant? While it’s not a typical menstrual cycle, some women do experience spotting or bleeding, which may resemble periods during pregnancy. This can happen due to factors like implantation bleeding in the early weeks, hormonal fluctuations, or even underlying medical conditions. If you notice bleeding at any stage of pregnancy, it’s always best to consult a doctor to rule out complications.
Understanding the difference between a true period and pregnancy-related bleeding is essential for maintaining your reproductive health. If you're wondering, ‘Can you be pregnant and still get periods?’ the answer is no, but pregnancy-related bleeding can sometimes be confusing.
Why you don’t have periods while pregnant?
A proper period is when you lose blood at the end of your menstrual cycle after your egg remains unfertilised by sperm. When an egg is not fertilised, your hormone levels drop at the end of the month. This triggers the lining of your womb to disintegrate and shed. This shedding of uterus lining accompanied by blood is what we typically refer to as a period. If you've tested positive for pregnancy, it means an egg has already been fertilised and is growing within your uterus. The fertilised egg means the hormone levels don’t drop and doesn’t trigger the shedding of uterus lining. And since your womb lining is not shedding, you no longer have a period during the course of your pregnancy. This is also why a missed period is one of the early signs of pregnancy.
If you do notice some blood, however, that could be a case of spotting during pregnancy. Which is why many women go into panic mode and scour the Internet with questions like, ‘can you have a period while pregnant’ or ‘can you be pregnant and still have a period’. Remember that bleeding is surely something you must be alert about but it isn’t necessarily always a bad sign. Many women have healthy pregnancies and babies after experiencing spotting during their first.
So, if you notice bleeding or spotting of any kind, it’s most likely related to something other than normal menstruation. It’s advisable to check with your doctor to determine the cause.
Reasons for bleeding during pregnancy
Let’s look at some common causes for bleeding during pregnancy:
1. Implantation bleeding
Some women experience 'implantation bleeding', which occurs at the time when the fertilised egg reaches the uterus and nestles or implants itself into its lining. When you have implantation bleeding, the spotting will be light pinkish or brownish and it will feel like bleeding at the start of your period. It typically happens around 10 to 14 days after conception.
2. Sexual intercourse
Some women tend to have a more sensitive cervix when they’re pregnant. This causes a little bleeding after having an intercourse. You may need to get some pelvic exams done to confirm and manage the symptoms.
3. Ectopic pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy is when the foetus starts to grow outside of your womb, like in a fallopian tube. It usually occurs in the first trimester and the bleeding with an ectopic pregnancy may vary. You may also experience pain, dizziness or light-headedness. You must contact your doctor and get treatment immediately as it can be life-threatening if left untreated.
4. Miscarriage
The first trimester is the most sensitive period and typically miscarriages occur during this phase. Having a miscarriage or pregnancy loss will lead to bleeding accompanied by uterine cramping. The bleeding would be heavy and soak through a pad and you may also notice large clots pass from the vagina. If you notice these symptoms, you must contact your doctor right away.
5. Certain pregnancy complications
Other pregnancy complications such as subchorionic hemoerrhage (a blood clot that forms behind the developing placenta), a cervical infection, placenta previa (when the placenta implants and grows over the cervix), or benign cervical polyps may also result in spotting or bleeding while you’re pregnant.
6. Placenta previa
This condition is when the placenta (a temporary organ that develops during pregnancy) gets implanted lower in the uterus, so low that it covers the cervix. This condition presents no other symptoms, although it may hinder labour and delivery.
7. Placental abruption
A condition most likely to occur during the last few months of pregnancy, it is when the placenta detaches from the uterus. This causes heavy bleeding and may also cause severe stomach pain and cramping.
8. Uterine rupture
This occurs when the uterine muscles tear or separate before or during labour. It’s considered a medical emergency, as it may result in uncontrolled vaginal bleeding. Though rare, the condition most often occurs in people who have a history of uterine surgery or caesarean delivery.
9. Uterine Rupture
Uterine rupture is a rare but serious condition that can cause bleeding during pregnancy, especially in women who have had a previous caesarean section or surgery on the uterus. It occurs when the wall of the uterus tears, usually during late pregnancy or labour. This can lead to pain, bleeding, and risk to both mother and baby. If you experience sudden, severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, or a drop in your baby’s movement, seek immediate medical attention. While uncommon, it’s important to be aware of this risk, especially in later stages of pregnancy or during delivery.
10. Infections That May Cause Bleeding
Certain infections in the reproductive tract, such as bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs), can cause inflammation and bleeding during pregnancy. These infections may irritate the cervix or vaginal walls, making them more sensitive and likely to bleed. Symptoms may include unusual discharge, itching, or a burning sensation while urinating. If you notice light bleeding along with these signs, it’s important to see a healthcare provider. Early treatment helps protect both the mother and the developing baby.
What to do when you bleed?
We understand noticing any kind of spotting or bleeding is going to be alarming but try to stay calm. Even when you’re pregnant you must always have some sort of back up with you at all times. Having a panty liner that has good absorption capacity will help manage any sudden spotting that you experience. Try the ALWAYS Extra Protect Panty Liners which are formulated with an absorbing zone and odour neutralising technology. These panty liners offer extra coverage. These are perfect for protection from vaginal discharge as well as sudden spotting.
Bleeding During the Second and Third Trimester – When to Worry?
Bleeding later in pregnancy—during the second or third trimester—is not as common as in the first trimester and should always be taken seriously. While light spotting may sometimes occur after intercourses or a medical exam, heavier bleeding could signal a more serious issue. Conditions such as placenta previa (where the placenta covers the cervix), placental abruption (when the placenta separates from the uterus), or preterm labour can all cause bleeding and may put both the mother and baby at risk.
You should seek medical attention immediately if the bleeding is heavy, bright red, or accompanied by pain, cramps, dizziness, contractions, or decreased movement of the baby. These could be warning signs that something is wrong, and timely care can make a big difference.
It’s important to remember that every pregnancy is different. Even though bleeding can be scary, it doesn’t always mean there is a problem. However, it is always best to consult a healthcare provider to rule out complications.
Other Reasons Why You Might Experience Bleeding or a “Period” During Pregnancy
There are several other reasons why you might experience bleeding that resembles a period during pregnancy:
1. Cervical Changes
During pregnancy, increased blood flow to the cervix can make it more sensitive. This means that activities like sexual intercourse or a routine pelvic exam may cause light bleeding or spotting. Though it might seem similar to a period, this type of bleeding is typically harmless and not an actual menstrual cycle.
2. Infection
Certain infections, such as bacterial vaginosis or sexually transmitted infections (STIs), can cause irritation and inflammation of the cervix, leading to bleeding. If you notice unusual bleeding along with symptoms like foul-smelling discharge, itching, or discomfort, it’s important to see a doctor. While infections don’t cause true periods during pregnancy, they can lead to spotting or bleeding that might be mistaken for one.
3. Molar Pregnancy
A molar pregnancy is a rare condition where abnormal tissue grows inside the uterus instead of a normal embryo. One of the common symptoms is vaginal bleeding, which may resemble a period when pregnant. However, this condition is serious and requires medical attention, as it can pose health risks if left untreated.4. Preterm Labour
If you are in the second or third trimester and experience bleeding along with cramping, back pain, or contractions, it could be a sign of preterm labour. This means your body is preparing for delivery earlier than expected. So, if you find yourself bleeding later in your pregnancy and seem to be wondering ‘Can you get periods while pregnant? - it is not a period. Rather, it could indicate complications like preterm labour, which requires immediate medical care.
While experiencing bleeding during pregnancy can be concerning, it’s important to differentiate it from a real menstrual cycle. If you’re unsure about what you’re experiencing, consult your doctor to ensure your health and your baby’s safety.
When to contact your doctor?
It’s essential that you contact your doctor if your bleeding is bright red in colour and is heavy enough to soak through a pad. Besides this, if you experience bleeding as well as symptoms like cramping, pain, fainting or dizziness, passing clots or heavy bleeding, contact your family/friends to have you taken to the nearest medical centre.
Is It possible To Be On Periods While Pregnant?
The simple answer is no—you cannot have a true period while pregnant. A menstrual period happens when the body sheds the uterine lining because no pregnancy has occurred. Once you're pregnant, your body holds onto this lining to support the baby, which means your regular cycle stops. However, some women may experience bleeding during pregnancy for other reasons, like implantation, hormonal changes, or medical concerns.
That’s why it's important to pay attention to your body and seek professional advice if you notice bleeding at any stage of pregnancy. If you've been wondering ‘Can you get periods while pregnant?’ remember—while true menstruation doesn’t occur, not all bleeding means something is wrong. Stay informed, listen to your body, and don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider.
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