Miscarriage and Bleeding During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy can be frightening, but bleeding does not always mean miscarriage. There can be several causes, particularly in early pregnancy. However, any bleeding during pregnancy should be discussed with your healthcare provider. 

What is a miscarriage?
A miscarriage is the loss of a pregnancy before 24 weeks. Vaginal bleeding and lower abdominal cramping are common symptoms, although some miscarriages may have no symptoms and are only discovered during an ultrasound. 

When should you seek medical help?
Contact your doctor or maternity team if you experience vaginal bleeding during pregnancy, especially if it is accompanied by abdominal pain or cramping.

Seek urgent medical attention if you have:

Heavy bleeding
Severe abdominal pain
Shoulder-tip pain
Dizziness, fainting or feeling very weak
Significant or persistent pain on one side of the abdomen
Fluid leaking from the vagina (nhs.uk)
Can yoga be practised after bleeding or a miscarriage?
If you experience bleeding, stop your yoga practice and speak with your healthcare provider before resuming exercise.

After a miscarriage, when you return to yoga or other physical activity depends on your physical recovery, symptoms and medical advice. There is no need to rush your recovery.

The emotional recovery can also take time. Give yourself permission to rest, seek support and process your experience in your own way.

Bleeding during pregnancy should never be self-diagnosed. When in doubt, speak with your doctor or maternity team.

*This article is for general information and does not replace individual medical advice.