Third Trimester Bleeding

[IowaAngela]

I don't feel worried about this - but I don't want to be under-reacting either, so I was hoping for some opinions.

I'm 35.5 weeks. This morning, when I wiped there was a fairly significant amount of red blood. It may have been a bit clotty too. After that wipe, "looked" for more and couldn't find any more.

Now I have two theories. One is that I have hemorrhoids, and maybe a hemorrhoid bleed and the blood "traveled" to my vagina. (My bum was totally clean and blood free this morning, fyi). My other theory is that this is the result of my doctor checking my cervix yesterday morning.

Are those reasonable explanations? Should I call a doctor about this, or just chill?

I do have high blood pressure but no other special risk factors in this pregnancy.

Oh... one third theory that just came to mind. Is this "bloody show"?? I'm not even sure of what that means, but I've heard of it.


Thanks!!!

[umsami]

I would definitely call your OB. You could be right about the hemorrhoids, but at this point in your pregnancy, I'd definitely call.

Bloody show is more of a mucusy, bloody blob. It's totally nasty IMHO...and unmistakable. (Doesn't hurt...just nasty looking. I usually wear a panti-liner near the end of my pregnancies to catch it should it happen.) When you do see it for the first time, it's like "ohhhhh, so that's it."

[MaryLang]

I started bleeding at 34 wks, and not to scare you but it was a bleeding placenta previa, it was mostly my blood though, not the babies and the baby was born early but fine.

[IowaAngela]

Thanks so much for your responses - although they weren't what i wanted to hear! LOL!

It doesn't sound like bloody show from what is described above. I haven't had any more bleeding, though, it was just a one-time deal. If it was a placenta problem, wouldn't the bleeding continue? Or wouldn't I have cramps?

Has anyone ever bleed from a cervix check? What was that like?

The only reason I am resisting calling in is because i am collecting a 24-hour urine today- and i pee often! The doctor/hospital is about an hour away so I don't know if I could make it that far without peeing and I'm not a big fan of carrying my own pee around. Also, I'd have to take my 1 1/2 year old with me.... excuses, excuses.

I guess I could call and just see what they say. They may not even want me to come in, right? And it sounds like it'd be irresponsible of me NOT to call just in case this is something... I gotta protect my littlest one!

[rainbowmoon]

I bet it's from your exam.

That said, it can be a sign of placenta issues (previa, accreta,etc) ESPECIALLY in the 3rd trimester, so I'd get checked out ASAP!

ETA- I bleed regularly from cervix checks. Usually enough for a pad but usually NOT the next day..

Can't you can start over with the urine collecting tomorrow? I have had to do it before too and what a pain saving your pee is!

[IowaAngela]

OK, I put a call in... just waiting to hear back from the doctor and keeping everything crossed that she won't want me to come in.

I'll let you all know what I find out...

[MaerynPearl]

I had a tissue paper full of bright red, clotty blood a few weeks ago (in the first tri) and almost fainted... until it did turn out to be bleeding hemorrhoids. I really hope it is just as benign for you!

[IowaAngela]

I'm betting hemorrhoids are to blame. Especially since I KNOW I have them and they do bleed from time to time (but it usually after a BM and it usually clearly from my bum and doesn't 'travel' to my vagina). If not that, it could have been the exam. But, yeah, I guess since there is a very small chance it could be something worrisome, it's best that I called it in.

Oh shoot... My doctor literally just called and wants me to come in. D'oh!! Hopefully this won't screw up my pee jug collecting efforts. I don't know what all they are going to do, but they did say they were going to put me on an NST as soon as I arrive.

OK. I'm put out, but I'd never forgive myself if this WAS something bad and I didn't go because it was inconvenient. I'm doing this for the baby.

[MaryLang]

I think that was a good idea to call, even if it is nothing to worry about, at least now you'll know one way or another.

[umsami]

I think you're doing the right thing... especially as it could be something serious. If it turns out it is from the hemorrhoids or from the exam, at least you'll know for next time.

[IowaAngela]

And the winner is... CERVICAL EXAM!!!

At least, that's what the doctor decided after giving me a pretty thorough checkout.

Now I can relax.

Thanks for the advise and support!

[rainbowmoon]

yay!!!!!!!!!!!

[MaryLang]

Phew! Thanks for updating us!