Vaginal bleeding is something nearly all woman have to deal with in their life. It can be caused by different things including regular menstrual cycles as well as pregnancy. Decidual bleeding and a period are two very common reasons for vaginal bleeding. They are caused by somewhat similar but also very different things. Let’s take a look at the facts and differences between these two vaginal bleeding causes.
Decidual Bleeding Overview
1. Basics
Decidual bleeding is bleeding from the vagina that occurs during early stages of pregnancy. It is not uncommon and usually not a cause of concern. The bleeding can continue all the way into the second and third trimester. It may resemble a menstrual period but is something completely and totally different.
2. Characteristics
Decidual bleeding happens around the same time that a woman’s normal menstrual cycle would naturally occur. It is commonly the reason that women do not believe they are pregnant. In some cases the bleeding may resemble the normal blood that comes with a menstrual cycle but more commonly is a brown-ish colored discharge. In majority of women this bleeding stops after only one or two days.
3. Cause
When a women becomes pregnant significant and fast hormonal changes begin to occur. The bleeding is a result of the uterine lining being shed because a new and thicker lining is developing. It can often be confused with implantation bleeding which is another common reason women may experience bleeding or spotting during a pregnancy.
4. Doctor?
If you are pregnant and are experiencing any type of vaginal bleeding it is very important to contact your physician. Bleeding can also be a sign of a miscarriage. Your doctor will be able to perform tests on your and your baby to make sure everything is developing normally.
Period Facts
1. Basics
A period, or menstruation, is when the body sheds out tissues from the uterus that it no longer needs. Every month during ovulation the lining of the uterus gets thicker in order to prepare for a fertilized egg. If you do not become pregnant during this time then it sheds the lining through the vagina. This shows up in the form of blood and happens in every woman’s life, once a month.
2. Signs
There are many signs that you are about to get your period as well as side effects while you are having it. Bloating and abdominal cramping are two key characteristics that are experienced just before and during your menstrual cycle. Breast tenderness, water retention, headaches, fatigue, and acne are all also side effects that may happen during a woman’s monthly period. The severity and types of issues experienced is different for each woman.
3. Complications
One common complication that can come with menstrual cycles is a medical condition called menorrhagia. This is when an abnormally high amount of blood is lost during the period. A typical woman will lose between 5 and 12 tablespoons of blood during her menstrual cycle but with menorrhagia up to 18 tablespoons of blood may be lost.
Differences Between Decidual and Period Bleeding
1. Cause
The biggest difference between decidual bleeding and a period is the actual cause of bleeding. Decidual bleeding can only occur is a woman is pregnant. This is caused by the influx of hormones caused by the pregnancy. Menstrual bleeding is caused by the lining of the uterus being shed.
2. Side Effects
Another large difference between decidual and menstrual bleeding is the other effects it has on your body. With decidual bleeding the symptoms are those of early pregnancy. Menstrual bleeding, however, causes symptoms of pms, which include headaches and cramping.