Developing a subchorionic bleed (haematoma) in early pregnancy is very scary for the pregnant mother. It is a collection of blood between the wall of the uterus and the developing placenta (or chorion) and can be of any size. Most of these haematomas are of minimal significance and resolve given time during the pregnancy without any serious consequences.

The most common symptom resulting from a subchorionic haematoma is bleeding in early pregnancy (with or without crampy lower tummy pain). However, some haematomas can develop and resolve without declaring any signs of external bleeding.

What I would like to address mainly in this post is the situation when there is bleeding in early pregnancy and the mother is already taking blood thinners. These medications can include low-dose Aspirin and/or injectable blood thinners (like Clexane) and there can be a very important reason for the mother to be on this medication in pregnancy. These conditions can include various clotting disorders (thromobphilias), a current or past history of clots in the legs or lungs, etc.

In such circumstances it would be advisable to consider consulting with a Specialist to ensure your symptoms can be assessed and have a reassurance early pregnancy scan. This will also allow the opportunity for your medication to be reviewed and tailored to your bleeding status.

Mr A Khan - MBBS MRCOG

Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist