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Find out about the signs of labour in our practical birth classes (like NCT) call Linda on
07920192881 to book or visit www.frombumps2babies.co.uk
Cervical ectropion
Cervical ectropion (or erosion) is a harmless change to the cervix sometimes seen in
pregnancy The thin layer of gland cells normally lining the inside of your cervical canal
appears on the outside of the neck of your womb (cervix). These cells are more fragile
causing vaginal discharge or bleeding, especially when having sex (intercourse).
Placental abruption
This is a serious condition in which the placenta starts to come away from the womb wall.
Placental abruption usually causes stomach pain, and this may occur even if there is no
bleeding.
Low-lying placenta (placenta praevia)
This is when the placenta is attached in the lower part of the womb, near to or covering the
cervix. Bleeding from a low-lying placenta can be very heavy, and put you and your baby
at risk. This is normally picked up at your 20 week scan and a management plan put in
place for your pregnancy
The majority of low lying placentas resolve from 32 weeks as the uterus grows.
If the placenta remains low lying and close to the exit of the cervix a caesarian section will
be booked for delivery.
Finding out the cause of bleeding in pregnancy
To work out what is causing the bleeding, you may need to have a vaginal examination, an
ultrasound scan or blood tests
Your doctor will also ask you about other symptoms, such as cramp, pain and dizziness.
Sometimes it might not be possible to find out what caused the bleeding.
If your symptoms are not severe and your baby is not due for a while, you'll be monitored
and, in some cases, kept in hospital for observation.
How long you need to stay in hospital depends on the cause of the bleeding and how
many weeks pregnant you are.
Being in hospital allows staff to keep an eye on you and your baby, so they can act quickly
if there are further problems.
Choice of your place of birth
Excellent article below

