Can You Still Get Your Period While Pregnant?
Understanding the Basics of Menstrual Cycles and Pregnancy
Menstruation is a normal part of a woman's reproductive cycle. Every month, the body prepares for a potential pregnancy. The uterus will shed its lining and the result is a woman's period. During this time, the woman's body will release hormones and the uterus will contract, leading to the shedding of the lining and bleeding. If fertilization does not occur, the menstrual cycle will repeat itself again the following month.
When Does Menstruation Stop During Pregnancy?
Once a woman becomes pregnant, her body will adjust and the menstrual cycle will stop. This is due to the increased levels of the hormone progesterone that is released during pregnancy. This hormone is responsible for maintaining the pregnancy and prevents the uterus from releasing its lining, which would lead to a period.
Can a Woman Still Get Her Period While Pregnant?
In rare cases, a woman can still experience her period while pregnant. This is known as an ectopic pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the fertilized egg implants itself outside of the uterus, usually in the fallopian tubes. An ectopic pregnancy can cause abnormal bleeding, which can be mistaken for a period.
Signs That You May Be Experiencing an Ectopic Pregnancy
If you are pregnant and experiencing abnormal bleeding, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy include: persistent abdominal pain, spotting or light bleeding, pelvic pain, and sharp cramping on one side of the pelvic region. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your doctor right away.
What Should You Do if You Experience a Period While Pregnant?
If you are pregnant and experience any vaginal bleeding, it is important to contact your doctor right away. Your doctor may order a pregnancy test or an ultrasound to determine the cause of the bleeding. If the test reveals that you are pregnant, your doctor may order a pelvic exam to check for any signs of an ectopic pregnancy.
Conclusion
It is possible for a woman to experience her period while pregnant in rare cases. If you are pregnant and experience any type of bleeding, it is important to contact your doctor right away. Your doctor can order tests to determine the cause of the bleeding and ensure that you and your baby remain healthy.
References
Mayo Clinic. (2018, December 17). Ectopic Pregnancy. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ectopic-pregnancy/symptoms-causes/syc-20378253
WebMD. (2018, October 22). Bleeding During Pregnancy. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/baby/bleeding-during-pregnancy#1