A subchorionic haemorrhage, also known as a subchorionic hematoma, is a condition that occurs during early pregnancy where there is bleeding between the chorion, the outer membrane surrounding the embryo, and the uterus. This type of bleeding is a common finding in early pregnancy and can be a cause of concern for expectant mothers. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Ultrasound, subchorionic haemorrhages are detected in approximately 20-30% of early pregnancies.
The exact cause of subchorionic haemorrhage is not always clear, but it is thought to be related to the process of implantation of the embryo into the uterine lining. During this process, small blood vessels may be disrupted, leading to bleeding. Other factors that may contribute to the development of subchorionic haemorrhage include uterine anomalies, cervical polyps, and bleeding disorders.
Causes and Risk Factors of Subchorionic Haemorrhage
While the exact cause of subchorionic haemorrhage is not always clear, there are several risk factors that have been identified. These include:
- Advanced maternal age: Women over the age of 35 are at a higher risk of developing subchorionic haemorrhage.
- Multiple pregnancy: Women carrying twins or other multiples are at a higher risk of subchorionic haemorrhage.
- Uterine anomalies: Women with uterine anomalies, such as a septate uterus, are at a higher risk of subchorionic haemorrhage.
- Cervical polyps: Women with cervical polyps are at a higher risk of subchorionic haemorrhage.
- Bleeding disorders: Women with bleeding disorders, such as von Willebrand disease, are at a higher risk of subchorionic haemorrhage.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of Subchorionic Haemorrhage
The symptoms of subchorionic haemorrhage can vary, but common symptoms include:
Vaginal bleeding: This is the most common symptom of subchorionic haemorrhage. The bleeding may be light or heavy, and may be accompanied by clots.
Abdominal pain: Some women may experience abdominal pain or cramping.
No symptoms: In some cases, subchorionic haemorrhage may not cause any symptoms at all.
Diagnosis of subchorionic haemorrhage is typically made using ultrasound. A transvaginal ultrasound can detect bleeding between the chorion and the uterus, and can also evaluate the size and location of the hematoma.
| Characteristic | Subchorionic Haemorrhage |
|---|---|
| Location of bleeding | Between the chorion and the uterus |
| Common symptoms | Vaginal bleeding, abdominal pain |
| Risk factors | Advanced maternal age, multiple pregnancy, uterine anomalies, cervical polyps, bleeding disorders |
Key Points
- Subchorionic haemorrhage is a common finding in early pregnancy, occurring in approximately 20-30% of pregnancies.
- The exact cause of subchorionic haemorrhage is not always clear, but it is thought to be related to the process of implantation of the embryo into the uterine lining.
- Risk factors for subchorionic haemorrhage include advanced maternal age, multiple pregnancy, uterine anomalies, cervical polyps, and bleeding disorders.
- Symptoms of subchorionic haemorrhage can vary, but common symptoms include vaginal bleeding and abdominal pain.
- Diagnosis of subchorionic haemorrhage is typically made using ultrasound.
- Most women with subchorionic haemorrhage go on to have a healthy pregnancy, but close monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential.
Management and Treatment of Subchorionic Haemorrhage
The management and treatment of subchorionic haemorrhage depend on the individual case and the severity of the bleeding. In most cases, women with subchorionic haemorrhage are advised to:
Rest: Women may be advised to rest and avoid heavy lifting or bending.
Hydrate: Women may be advised to drink plenty of fluids to help prevent dehydration.
Monitor: Women may be advised to monitor their bleeding and report any changes to their healthcare provider.
In some cases, women may be prescribed medications to help manage their symptoms. These may include:
Progesterone: Progesterone is a hormone that helps to support the pregnancy. Women with subchorionic haemorrhage may be prescribed progesterone to help prevent miscarriage.
Tranexamic acid: Tranexamic acid is a medication that helps to reduce bleeding. Women with subchorionic haemorrhage may be prescribed tranexamic acid to help manage their bleeding.
Prognosis and Outcomes of Subchorionic Haemorrhage
The prognosis and outcomes of subchorionic haemorrhage vary depending on the individual case and the severity of the bleeding. In most cases, women with subchorionic haemorrhage go on to have a healthy pregnancy. However, in some cases, subchorionic haemorrhage may be associated with:
Miscarriage: Subchorionic haemorrhage may be associated with an increased risk of miscarriage.
Preterm labor: Subchorionic haemorrhage may be associated with an increased risk of preterm labor.
Low birth weight: Subchorionic haemorrhage may be associated with an increased risk of low birth weight.
What is subchorionic haemorrhage?
+Subchorionic haemorrhage is a condition that occurs during early pregnancy where there is bleeding between the chorion, the outer membrane surrounding the embryo, and the uterus.
What are the symptoms of subchorionic haemorrhage?
+The symptoms of subchorionic haemorrhage can vary, but common symptoms include vaginal bleeding and abdominal pain.
How is subchorionic haemorrhage diagnosed?
+Diagnosis of subchorionic haemorrhage is typically made using ultrasound.
What is the treatment for subchorionic haemorrhage?
+The management and treatment of subchorionic haemorrhage depend on the individual case and the severity of the bleeding. In most cases, women with subchorionic haemorrhage are advised to rest, hydrate, and monitor their bleeding.