Experiencing Bleeding Following a Stillbirth at 25 Weeks
I am a 28-year-old woman with a normal body weight, diagnosed with von Willebrand disease and a platelet function disorder. I suffered the loss of my son at 25 weeks of pregnancy on June 11th. Initially, the bleeding I experienced had subsided significantly, manifesting primarily as light spotting with brownish or dark hues. However, approximately three days ago, I began to feel cramping, and the bleeding transformed into bright red with a somewhat increased flow. My obstetrician did not express any concern regarding this change, but my hematologist arranged for some tranexamic acid to be collected from the pharmacy. I find myself questioning whether this could be an early return of my menstrual cycle. It seems premature for that to occur, yet the bleeding strikingly resembles my typical period. This situation is perplexing to me, especially since I did not encounter this after giving birth to my living child, leaving me feeling somewhat adrift. Could it be that my menstruation is returning unusually early, or is this something I should be worried about?
Answers (1)
6/29/2025, 5:20:37 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm truly sorry to hear about your loss and the challenges you're facing. Bleeding following a stillbirth can understandably lead to many questions and concerns, especially with your medical history.
Main Points:
- The bleeding you're experiencing may not necessarily signify an early return of your menstrual cycle but could be a result of the body adjusting post-loss.
- Your experience of cramping and bright red blood is important to monitor, though your healthcare team does not seem overly concerned at this point.
Explanation:
After a stillbirth, it’s common for some women to experience changes in bleeding patterns. The initial light spotting you described is typical as the body begins to heal. However, the shift to brighter, more heavily flowing blood, especially accompanied by cramping, can be disconcerting. It's essential to acknowledge this is a challenging time, and your feelings of uncertainty are valid.
Bleeding after a stillbirth is your body’s way of expelling tissue and preparing for future cycles. While early menstruation is a possibility, it typically takes several weeks to return, and what you're experiencing now might just be part of the physical recovery process. Since you have von Willebrand disease and a platelet function disorder, this can complicate bleeding patterns.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of the amount of bleeding and any accompanying symptoms such as severe cramping, dizziness, or weakness. Note if the bleeding increases or decreases substantially.
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Use Tranexamic Acid as Directed: Since your hematologist prescribed tranexamic acid, utilize this medication as directed. This can help with potential increased bleeding due to your blood conditions.
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Limit Physical Activity: Give your body time to heal by avoiding strenuous activities that could worsen bleeding.
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Stay in Contact with Your Healthcare Providers: Although your obstetrician was not concerned, if there are changes in your symptoms or if you feel like something is not right, don’t hesitate to reach out again. You know your body best, and trust your instincts.
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Seek Support: This is a deeply emotional experience, so consider talking with a mental health professional or support group that specializes in grief after infant loss.
Take care of yourself during this time, and don’t hesitate to ask more questions or seek further support.
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