Warning signs & when to seek care
When is bleeding during pregnancy an emergency?
Any bleeding in pregnancy should be checked, and heavy bleeding or bleeding with pain is an emergency.
Light spotting can be harmless, but bleeding can also mean a problem with the placenta, a pregnancy outside the womb, or early labour. It is not something to watch at home.
Go to hospital immediately for heavy bleeding, bleeding with abdominal pain, bleeding with reduced movements, or any bleeding after 20 weeks.
What you can do
- Note how much you are bleeding and when it started
- Do not insert anything into the vagina
- Take your maternity record with you
When to seek care
- Heavy bleeding or clots
- Bleeding with pain or a hard, tender abdomen
- Bleeding with dizziness or fainting
- Any bleeding after 20 weeks
Bleeding in pregnancy is an emergency — go to the nearest hospital immediately.
This information is general health education and does not replace advice from your nurse, midwife or doctor. In an emergency go to your nearest facility.