Last Updated on November 17, 2025 by Ugurkan Demir

Seeing bleeding with clots during pregnancy can be scary, more so if it’s heavy or hurts. Some light bleeding early on is normal. But heavy or ongoing bleeding could mean a bigger problem.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says up to 25% of women bleed in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. At Liv Hospital, we know this worries you. We’re here to give you clear, comforting info to guide you through this.

Key Takeaways

• Bleeding with clots during pregnancy is not typical and may indicate a serious issue.
• Up to 25% of women experience some vaginal bleeding during the first trimester.
• Heavy or persistent bleeding requires immediate medical attention.
• Understanding the causes and risks of bleeding during pregnancy is critical.
• Liv Hospital is dedicated to giving you full care and support.

Understanding Bleeding With Clots During Pregnancy

Bleeding with clots during pregnancy can be scary. But knowing why it happens is key. We’re here to help you understand what’s normal and what’s not.

Distinguishing Between Normal Spotting and Concerning Bleeding

Spotting in early pregnancy is common. It might be from the embryo implanting or cervical changes. But, heavy, ongoing bleeding or pain is a red flag. Bleeding with clots can have many causes, like implantation or cervical changes.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say pregnant women are at risk for blood clots. This is because the body clots blood more and blood flow to the legs is less. Knowing this helps us understand the risks of bleeding and blood clots during pregnancy.

How Blood Clots Form During Pregnancy

Blood clots in pregnancy happen for a few reasons. These include more clotting and less movement. As pregnancy goes on, the body gets ready for delivery by making more clotting factors. But, this can sometimes cause unwanted clots.

Is it normal to have blood clots during pregnancy? Some clotting is okay for childbirth. But, clots that cause pain or swelling are not normal. You should tell your healthcare provider about them.

It’s important for pregnant women to know the difference between normal spotting and concerning bleeding. While some bleeding is okay, always check with a healthcare provider. This ensures the health and safety of both mom and baby.

5 Common Causes of Bleeding With Clots During Pregnancy

Bleeding with clots during pregnancy can be scary. Knowing the causes is key to managing it. We’ll look at each cause to understand why it happens.

Miscarriage and Threatened Miscarriage

Miscarriage is a big reason for bleeding in early pregnancy. It happens when a pregnancy ends too early. Threatened miscarriage means bleeding without losing the pregnancy.

The American Academy of Family Physicians says early bleeding might mean miscarriage. Up to 20% of pregnancies end in miscarriage, often due to genetic issues.

Subchorionic Hematoma

A subchorionic hematoma is blood between the placenta and uterus. It can cause bleeding and clots. But, many women with this issue have healthy pregnancies.

Studies show the size and location of the hematoma affect the outcome. Women with this condition are closely watched to keep everyone safe.

Placental Complications

Placental issues like placenta previa or placental abruption can cause bleeding. Placenta previa covers the cervix, while abruption separates the placenta from the uterus.

These problems can lead to serious bleeding. If symptoms get worse, seek medical help right away.

Cervical Changes and Infections

Cervical changes or infections can also cause bleeding. The cervix gets more vascular as it prepares for labor. This can lead to bleeding after sex or exams. Infections like cervicitis or vaginitis can also cause it.

It’s important to treat any infections to avoid complications. If you’re bleeding, see your doctor to check for serious issues.

When Is Bleeding With Clots During Pregnancy Serious?

Bleeding with clots during pregnancy can be scary. It’s important to know when it’s serious to get help fast. Some bleeding is normal, like in the first trimester. But, some bleeding can mean a serious health problem.

First Trimester vs. Later Pregnancy Bleeding

Bleeding in the first trimester happens to up to 25% of women. But, clots can be a worry. Later in pregnancy, bleeding is rarer but can be more serious, often due to placenta issues.

It’s key to tell normal spotting from serious bleeding. Heavy bleeding with clots early on might mean a miscarriage. Later, it could be a sign of placental problems.

Warning Signs That Require Immediate Medical Attention

Some symptoms with bleeding and clots need quick doctor visits. These include:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Dizziness or fainting
• Shoulder pain
• Vaginal bleeding that is heavy or has clots
• Fever or chills

Understanding the Statistics: 5x Increased Risk During Pregnancy

Pregnancy raises the risk of blood clots, like DVT and PE. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say pregnant women are five times more likely to get these clots than non-pregnant women.

Knowing these risks and the warning signs helps pregnant women get medical help on time. This ensures their health and their baby’s.

Risk Factors and Prevention of Pregnancy Blood Clots

Pregnancy can increase the risk of blood clots due to medical conditions and lifestyle choices. Knowing these risks helps in managing them to avoid complications.

Medical Conditions That Increase Risk

Some medical conditions raise the risk of blood clots during pregnancy. Thrombophilia, for example, makes it easier for blood to clot. Other conditions like antiphospholipid syndrome also increase this risk. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says women with such conditions need careful monitoring.

“Women with thrombophilia face a higher risk of blood clots during pregnancy,” notes Dr. [Last Name], a maternal-fetal medicine specialist. “Preventive steps are key to lowering this risk.”

Lifestyle Factors: Immobility, Obesity, and Smoking

Lifestyle choices also affect the risk of blood clots in pregnancy. Immobility, whether from bed rest or sitting for long, raises this risk. Obesity increases blood pressure and heart work, adding to the risk. Smoking is another major risk factor for blood clots and other pregnancy issues.

Preventive Measures for High-Risk Pregnancies

For high-risk pregnancies, preventive steps can lower blood clot risk. Anticoagulant therapy is often given to high-risk women. Compression stockings also help by improving blood flow. Regular check-ups with healthcare providers are vital for managing risks and preventing problems.

Understanding and managing risk factors can help prevent blood clots in pregnancy. It’s important for pregnant women to talk to their healthcare providers about their risks. This way, they can find the best way to stay safe.

Conclusion: When to Seek Help and What to Expect

Bleeding with clots during pregnancy can be scary. Knowing when to get help is key. If you’re bleeding a lot and are pregnant, watch your symptoms closely.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says to get help fast for heavy bleeding, severe pain, or other signs. At Liv Hospital, we stress the need to act quickly if you notice anything odd.

Some women might bleed a lot and yet have a healthy baby. But if you’re worried or bleeding a lot and pregnant, talk to your doctor.

Dealing with bleeding during pregnancy can be stressful. Our team at Liv Hospital is here to help. If you’re unsure or have questions, contact your healthcare provider.

FAQ

References

1. National Health Service. (2025). Vaginal Bleeding in Pregnancy. 

2. National Blood Clot Alliance. (2025). Blood Clotting & Pregnancy.