Pregnancy and Vaginal Bleeding in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy can be frightening, but it is not always a sign that something is seriously wrong. In Grand Rapids and across Michigan, many women experience bleeding in early or late pregnancy and go on to have healthy babies. Still, it is important to know when to seek urgent care and what local resources are available.

If you are pregnant and experiencing bleeding at any stage, contact your healthcare provider right away or visit an emergency department at a Grand Rapids hospital such as Corewell Health (formerly Spectrum Health) Butterworth Hospital, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, University of Michigan Health–West (Metro Health), or Mercy Health.

How Common Is Bleeding in Pregnancy?

Bleeding from the vagina in early pregnancy is very common. It is estimated that:

  • Up to 1 in 4 pregnancies will have some bleeding in the first trimester
  • About one-third to one-half of women who bleed in early pregnancy will go on to have a miscarriage
  • Many women with early bleeding still have healthy, full-term babies

Bleeding in the second half of pregnancy (after 20 weeks) is less common and more likely to be linked to serious conditions, so it should always be checked urgently.

When Bleeding in Pregnancy Is an Emergency

Go immediately to the nearest emergency department in Grand Rapids (such as Butterworth Hospital or Trinity Health Grand Rapids) or call 911 if you:

  • Have bleeding in the second half of pregnancy
  • Soak a pad in an hour or less
  • Pass large clots or tissue
  • Have severe abdominal or pelvic pain or shoulder pain
  • Feel dizzy, faint, short of breath, or very weak
  • Have bleeding after a fall, car accident, or abdominal injury (especially common in icy Michigan winters)

In West Michigan, winter weather and icy sidewalks can increase the risk of falls during pregnancy. If you fall and then notice bleeding, seek urgent care.

Common Causes of Bleeding in Early Pregnancy

Bleeding in early pregnancy (the first 12 weeks) can have many causes. Sometimes, no clear reason is found, even after testing. Common causes include:

Miscarriage

A miscarriage is the loss of a pregnancy before the baby can survive outside the uterus, usually before 20 weeks. Most miscarriages occur in the first 12 weeks.

Signs and symptoms:

  • Vaginal bleeding (light spotting to heavy bleeding with clots)
  • Period-like cramping or pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis
  • Back pain
  • Sometimes no symptoms at all until an ultrasound shows a problem

Most miscarriages are not caused by anything the mother did or did not do. They are often related to chromosomal problems that cannot be prevented.

Ectopic Pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy happens when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most often in a fallopian tube.

Symptoms can include:

  • Vaginal bleeding or spotting
  • One-sided pelvic or abdominal pain
  • Shoulder pain (from internal bleeding irritating the diaphragm)
  • Dizziness, fainting, or feeling very unwell

If a fallopian tube ruptures, it can cause life-threatening internal bleeding and is a medical emergency requiring immediate surgery. Any pregnant person in Grand Rapids with these symptoms should call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department right away.

Implantation Bleeding

Some women experience implantation bleeding when the fertilized egg attaches to the lining of the uterus.

Typical features:

  • Light bleeding or spotting
  • Occurs around the time your period would have been due
  • Usually lasts a few days and then stops
  • Often not associated with pain

Implantation bleeding is usually harmless, but because it can look similar to early miscarriage bleeding, it is still wise to mention it to your provider.

Causes of Bleeding in Later Pregnancy

Bleeding after about 20–24 weeks is less common and can be more serious. Two important causes are:

Placenta Praevia (Placenta Previa)

Placenta praevia occurs when the placenta is located low in the uterus and partially or completely covers the cervix (the opening to the uterus).

Key points:

  • Often presents as painless, bright red bleeding after 20–28 weeks
  • May happen more than once during the pregnancy
  • Diagnosis is made by ultrasound

If you are diagnosed with placenta praevia at a Grand Rapids clinic or hospital:

  • You will usually be monitored closely by an obstetrician
  • You may be advised to limit activity, avoid sex, and avoid vaginal exams
  • Many women with placenta praevia need a planned cesarean section (C‑section) to safely deliver the baby

Placental Abruption

Placental abruption is when part or all of the placenta separates from the wall of the uterus before the baby is born.

Possible symptoms:

  • Vaginal bleeding (may be light or heavy)
  • Abdominal pain or back pain
  • Uterus that feels hard or tender
  • Baby’s movements may change or decrease

Placental abruption is a serious condition that can affect both mother and baby. Treatment may include:

  • Hospital monitoring at a Grand Rapids facility (such as Butterworth or Trinity Health Grand Rapids)
  • Bed rest
  • Early delivery of the baby if bleeding is heavy or the baby is in distress

How Bleeding in Pregnancy Is Diagnosed in Grand Rapids

Your doctor, midwife, or emergency team will take a careful history and perform tests to find the cause of bleeding. These may include:

Medical History and Physical Exam

Your provider may:

  • Ask about the amount, color, and timing of the bleeding
  • Ask about pain, dizziness, prior miscarriages, or ectopic pregnancy
  • Gently feel your abdomen to check:
    • Size of the uterus
    • Tenderness or firmness
    • Baby’s position in later pregnancy (sideways or bottom-first positions are more common with placenta praevia)

A speculum exam (looking at the cervix and vagina) may be done to see if bleeding is coming from the cervix or vaginal walls.

Important: If placenta praevia is suspected, digital (finger) vaginal exams should be avoided until an ultrasound has ruled it out, because they can trigger heavier bleeding.

Blood Tests

Blood tests may be used to:

  • Check your blood type and Rh factor (Rhesus)
  • Measure pregnancy hormone levels (hCG) in early pregnancy
  • Check your blood count (to see if you are anemic from blood loss)

If you have a negative blood type (Rh-negative), you may need an injection of anti-D immunoglobulin to prevent blood incompatibility problems in future pregnancies.

Ultrasound Scan

An ultrasound scan is one of the most important tests for bleeding in pregnancy.

  • Abdominal ultrasound: Gel is placed on your abdomen and a hand-held scanner uses sound waves to create images of your uterus and baby.
  • Transvaginal ultrasound: A slender probe is placed gently into the vagina for a closer look, especially in very early pregnancy.

An ultrasound typically takes 15–20 minutes and can help diagnose:

  • Miscarriage
  • Ectopic pregnancy
  • Placenta praevia
  • Placental abruption (in some cases)
  • Baby’s growth and heartbeat

In Grand Rapids, ultrasounds can be arranged through:

  • Hospital emergency departments (e.g., Butterworth, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health–U of M Health–West, Mercy Health)
  • Your OB/GYN office or certified midwife practice
  • Local imaging centers affiliated with major health systems

What Might Happen After Bleeding Starts

Bleeding in pregnancy can follow different paths:

  • The bleeding may be light and stop within a day or two
  • You may go on to have a healthy, full-term baby
  • Bleeding may become heavier and a miscarriage may occur

If a miscarriage is underway:

  • Unfortunately, there is usually no treatment that can stop it
  • You will still need medical care to protect your health
  • Sometimes, pregnancy tissue remains in the uterus and can cause heavy bleeding or infection if not treated

Your doctor may recommend:

  • Close observation and repeat ultrasounds
  • Medication to help the uterus empty
  • A minor surgical procedure (such as dilation and curettage, or D&C) at a Grand Rapids hospital

Rhesus (Rh) Factor and Anti-D Injection

If you are Rh-negative (for example, blood type O-, A-, B-, or AB-negative) and you experience bleeding in pregnancy, your provider may recommend an anti-D immunoglobulin injection. This helps prevent your immune system from forming antibodies that could affect future pregnancies.

Ask your Grand Rapids OB/GYN or midwife about your blood type and whether you need this injection.

Taking Care of Yourself at Home During Early Pregnancy Bleeding

While you should always be evaluated by a healthcare provider, especially the first time you notice bleeding, some general self-care measures may be recommended for mild bleeding in early pregnancy:

  • Rest: Get plenty of rest and avoid heavy lifting or intense exercise until your provider says it is safe.
  • Use pads, not tampons:
    • Use sanitary pads to monitor the amount of bleeding.
    • Avoid tampons and menstrual cups during pregnancy.
  • Avoid sex while bleeding:
    • Sexual intercourse may be restricted while you are bleeding.
    • Sex can usually resume once the bleeding has fully stopped and your provider has cleared you.
  • Pain relief:
    • Mild pain may be managed with acetaminophen (Tylenol/paracetamol) if your doctor approves.
    • Avoid ibuprofen, naproxen, or aspirin unless specifically directed.
  • Monitor your symptoms:
    • Note any increase in bleeding, new pain, fever, or feeling unwell.
    • Report any changes to your Grand Rapids provider or triage nurse promptly.

Emotional Support After Bleeding or Miscarriage

Bleeding in pregnancy and miscarriage can be emotionally devastating. Hormonal changes, grief, and shock can all affect your mood.

You may feel:

  • Sadness or numbness
  • Guilt or self-blame (even though you did nothing wrong)
  • Anger, anxiety, or fear about future pregnancies

If your low mood continues for weeks, or you feel unable to cope, you may be experiencing depression or postnatal/postpartum depression and should seek professional support.

In Grand Rapids and Kent County, emotional and mental health support is available through:

  • Your OB/GYN or midwife – ask for a referral to a perinatal mental health specialist
  • Primary care providers at Spectrum Health/Corewell, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health–U of M Health–West, or Mercy Health
  • Kent County Health Department and Grand Rapids Public Health – for local mental health and family support resources
  • Local counseling and support groups for pregnancy loss and postpartum depression

Where to Get Help in Grand Rapids, MI

If you are pregnant and experiencing bleeding, contact:

  • Your GP or family doctor
  • Your OB/GYN or midwife
  • Hospital emergency departments in Grand Rapids:
    • Corewell Health (Spectrum Health) Butterworth Hospital
    • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
    • University of Michigan Health–West (Metro Health)
    • Mercy Health facilities in the Grand Rapids area

For additional support and information, you can also connect with:

  • Kent County Health Department – maternal and child health programs
  • Grand Rapids Public Health and community clinics – prenatal care and referrals
  • Local support organizations for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders and pregnancy loss

If you are in immediate danger or feel very unwell, call 911.

Key Points About Pregnancy Bleeding

  • Bleeding from the vagina in early pregnancy is common, and many pregnancies continue normally.
  • Vaginal bleeding is the most common sign of miscarriage, but not all bleeding means you will miscarry.
  • Some women have no symptoms at all, and problems are only found on ultrasound.
  • Ectopic pregnancy can cause vaginal bleeding, cramping, abdominal pain, or shoulder pain and is a medical emergency.
  • Placenta praevia and placental abruption are serious causes of bleeding in later pregnancy and require hospital care.
  • Always seek medical advice from a Grand Rapids healthcare provider if you notice bleeding at any stage of pregnancy.