Pregnancy can bring about many changes in a woman’s body, some of which can be uncomfortable or even alarming. One such symptom that can be particularly concerning is vomiting blood. While it’s not a common occurrence, it’s important to know what can cause it and what to do if it happens to you.
Causes of Vomiting Blood During Pregnancy
Vomiting blood during pregnancy can be caused by a variety of factors, some of which are more serious than others. Here are some of the most common causes:
- Stomach Ulcer: A stomach ulcer is a small sore in the lining of the stomach. It can cause bleeding, which can lead to vomiting blood.
- Gallstones: Gallstones are small, hard deposits that form in the gallbladder. They can cause pain, nausea, and vomiting. If a gallstone blocks the bile duct, it can lead to bleeding, which can cause vomiting blood.
- Peptic Ulcer Disease: Peptic ulcer disease is a condition that causes ulcers in the stomach or small intestine. It can cause bleeding, which can lead to vomiting blood.
- Esophageal Varices: Esophageal varices are enlarged veins in the esophagus. They can rupture and bleed, which can cause vomiting blood.
- Ectopic Pregnancy: An ectopic pregnancy is a pregnancy that occurs outside of the uterus. It can cause bleeding, which can lead to vomiting blood.
- Miscarriage: A miscarriage is the loss of a pregnancy before 20 weeks of gestation. It can cause bleeding, which can lead to vomiting blood.
What to Do If You’re Vomiting Blood While Pregnant
If you’re pregnant and vomit blood, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Call Your Doctor: Call your doctor immediately if you have any of the following symptoms: nausea that lasts throughout the day, making it impossible to eat or drink; vomiting three to four times per day or not being able to keep anything in the stomach; brownish vomit or vomit with blood or streaks of blood in it.
- Determine the Cause: The color of the blood can help to determine the cause of the bleeding. Bright red blood is more likely to be coming from the stomach or esophagus, while dark brown or black blood is more likely to be coming from the intestines.
- Assess the Severity: The amount of blood you vomit can also be a clue to the severity of the bleeding. If you vomit a small amount of blood, it may not be a serious problem. However, if you vomit a large amount of blood, or if you are also experiencing other symptoms such as pain, dizziness, or lightheadedness, you should seek medical attention immediately.
- Stay Hydrated: If you are vomiting blood, it is important to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, clear broth, or sports drinks. You may also need to be given fluids intravenously by your doctor.
- Follow Your Doctor’s Recommendations: Your doctor will be able to determine the cause of the bleeding and recommend the best course of treatment. It’s important to follow their recommendations closely to ensure the health and safety of you and your baby.
What Is Hematemesis (Vomiting Blood)?
Hematemesis refers to vomit that has a significant amount of bright red or gritty coffee ground blood. Usually, the bright red blood indicates any bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract, mostly from the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum. Coffee-ground hematemesis occurs when the stomach acids convert hemoglobin to hematin (1). Related:
Why am I throwing up blood while pregnant in my 1st trimester?
When you’re feeling the most queasy, in the first trimester, you’re more likely to notice blood in your vomit.
Be aware that some of us struggle throughout our entire pregnancies to avoid episodes of nausea and vomiting.
Know that you don’t have to struggle through this alone.
If you’re worried, check in with your doctor. And if you require assistance, get in touch with your Peanut community.
Vomiting blood while pregnant can be a sign of severe morning sickness, or hyperemesis gravidarum in medical jargon, although many of the causes are explained by the conditions we’ve discussed.
If you’re losing weight, experiencing frequent vomiting, or are in danger of dehydrating yourself, your morning sickness is considered severe.
It can negatively impact both your health and your child’s health if left untreated.
Speak to your doctor if:
- Your nausea doesn’t go away
- You’re losing weight
- You’re feeling faint
- You’re peeing less than usual, or
- You regularly vomit blood
Your physician might suggest that you try eating little, often, and bland meals, or she or he might even recommend intravenous fluids or vitamin supplements.
What Is the Colour of the Blood in the Vomit?
The blood may look like this if you vomit while pregnant.
- If the bleeding is caused by an injury to the stomach or duodenum (first part of the small intestine), then the blood in the vomit may appear maroon or dark brown.
- If bleeding is caused by a tear in the oesophagus, the blood will appear red and fresh.
Causes of blood in vomiting after fasting in young women – Dr. Ravindra B S
Conclusion
Vomiting blood during pregnancy can be a scary experience, but it’s important to remember that it’s not always a sign of a serious problem. However, it’s crucial to seek medical attention right away if you experience this symptom. Your doctor will be able to determine the cause of the bleeding and recommend the best course of treatment. By following their recommendations and staying hydrated, you can ensure the health and safety of you and your baby.