Bleeding during pregnancy can be a cause for concern, but it is not always a sign of a serious problem. Here are some of the common causes of bleeding during pregnancy:

Causes of bleeding in early pregnancy:

• Implantation bleeding: This is when the fertilized egg implants in the wall of the uterus and causes light bleeding. It’s considered a normal part of early pregnancy.
• Cervical changes: Pregnancy can cause changes to the cervix, and this may sometimes cause bleeding – after sex, for example.
• Miscarriage: A loss of the pregnancy after the 20th week. This is also called a stillbirth.

Causes of bleeding in later pregnancy:

• Placenta previa: This is when the placenta covers part or all of the cervix. It can cause bleeding in the second or third trimester.
• Placental abruption: This is when the placenta separates from the uterus before the baby is born. It can cause bleeding and other complications.
• Preterm labor: This is when labor starts before 37 weeks of pregnancy. It can cause bleeding and other symptoms.

Other causes of bleeding during pregnancy:

• Sex: Some women experience light bleeding after sex. This is due to your cervix being extra tender during pregnancy.
• Pelvic exam or ultrasound: Your cervix can bleed after a pelvic exam or transvaginal ultrasound because it’s highly sensitive (due to increased hormones) .
• Infection: Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), or urinary tract infections (UTIs) can cause light bleeding.

It is important to contact your healthcare provider if you experience any bleeding during pregnancy. They can help determine the cause and provide appropriate treatment if necessary. If you have heavy bleeding, call your healthcare provider right away or go to the emergency room.