Bleeding from the vagina
If you are bleeding from your vagina any time from 12 weeks onwards, phone your midwife or maternity assessment unit for advice
Some spotting or light bleeding in early pregnancy is quite common and does not always mean that there is a problem. But it's important to get it checked out
Vaginal bleeding after 12 weeks can be a sign of premature labour or a problem with the placenta
The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists have produced an information sheet about vaginal bleeding during pregnancy
If you have vaginal bleeding
- Phone your midwife or the nearest midwifery unit straight away. Don’t wait till your next antenatal appointment
- The NHS recommends you call your midwife or maternity assessment unit immediately if you experience vaginal bleeding during pregnancy
More information
A film about vaginal bleeding was produced for Our Chance, a campaign by the charities Sands and Best Beginnings to raise awareness of health issues in pregnancy
Page last updated March 2025