Spotting and Possible Pregnancy

Q: I'm having symptoms of pregnancy -- morning sickness, vomiting, tender breasts, and spotting every once in a while. This morning I started bleeding. I was wondering if that was a sign that something could be wrong. I have an appointment with my Doctor in a few weeks. Should I be worried at this time?

--H.E.

Dr. Donnica: Despite your symptoms, the first thing that needs to be done is to document whether you are pregnant or not. A simple home urine pregnancy test is a good start. If it's positive, the bleeding could be "implantation bleeding" (a small amount of spotting that's considered normal in the first 4 to 6 weeks after your last menstrual period representing the implantation of the embryo into the lining of the uterus) or the beginning of a possible miscarriage ("threatened abortion").

If you are also having any abdominal pain, it is a possibility that you could be having a tubal or ectopic pregnancy. If your home pregnancy test is positive, I recommend that you call your doctor to schedule a check-up as soon as possible. If your pregnancy test is NOT positive (negative), chances are you're getting your period.

Best regards,
Donnica Moore, MD
President, DrDonnica.com

Created: 7/27/2003  -  Donnica Moore, M.D.