What causes bleeding during the second trimester of pregnancy?

Mar 18, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
In general, bleeding during the second trimester of pregnancy may be caused by excessive fatigue, improper sexual activity, cervicitis, pregnancy-induced hypertension, placental abruption, or other factors. Symptomatic management may involve general treatment, medication, or surgical intervention as needed. Pregnant women are advised to attend regular prenatal checkups at the hospital to monitor their health status and the development of the fetus.

Generally, bleeding during the second trimester of pregnancy may be caused by excessive fatigue, improper sexual activity, cervicitis, gestational hypertension, placental abruption, and other factors. Symptomatic management may involve general treatment, medication, or surgical interventions. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. A detailed explanation is as follows:

1. Excessive Fatigue

During pregnancy, the physical burden is significant. If a woman continues working or doing household chores for prolonged periods during the second trimester, it may lead to excessive fatigue, which can reduce bodily functions and affect uterine blood circulation, potentially causing bleeding. Pregnant women are advised to reduce physical activity and ensure adequate sleep to relieve physical fatigue.

2. Improper Sexual Activity

Excessively vigorous sexual activity or inappropriate positions during the second trimester may stimulate uterine contractions, causing the fetal membrane to separate from the uterine wall, which can lead to bleeding. At this point, sexual activity should be stopped immediately, and appropriate rest and relaxation measures should be taken, such as increased bed rest and adopting a left lateral position, to avoid further stimulation of the uterus.

3. Cervicitis

Hormonal changes during pregnancy may alter the local cervical environment, leading to cervicitis. Inflammatory changes during pregnancy can make cervical tissue fragile, making it prone to bleeding from minor stimuli, which may be accompanied by abnormal vaginal discharge or postcoital bleeding. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as amoxicillin capsules, Gongyanping tablets, or azithromycin capsules for treatment.

4. Gestational Hypertension

If a pregnant woman has a family history of hypertension or abnormal placental implantation, she may develop gestational hypertension. Gestational hypertension affects systemic blood vessels, including those of the uterus and placenta, leading to vascular rupture or placental dysfunction, which may also present with symptoms such as high blood pressure, proteinuria, and edema. It is recommended to follow medical instructions and use medications such as labetalol hydrochloride tablets, nifedipine tablets, or methyldopa tablets to alleviate symptoms.

5. Placental Abruption

When the blood supply between the placenta and the uterine wall is interrupted, the placenta partially or completely separates from the uterine wall, resulting in bleeding. This condition typically presents with severe abdominal pain, possibly accompanied by a rigid, board-like uterus and vaginal bleeding. Immediate medical attention is required, and surgical treatments such as cesarean section or hysterectomy should be performed under medical guidance.

Pregnant women are advised to attend regular prenatal checkups at the hospital to monitor their health status and fetal development promptly.