Bruising is a part of everyday life and is generally harmless. However, a woman will be more prone to bruising during pregnancy for several reasons. In the majority of cases, increased bruising during pregnancy is normal and not a matter of great concern. But when it occurs in excess, it can be a sign of complications, the underlying causes of which may require medical intervention.
Causal Factors of Bruising During Pregnancy
Bruising occurs when blood vessels rupture beneath unbroken skin. Abdominal bruising during pregnancy has several causes and potential exacerbating factors. These factors include:
Increased fragility of blood vessels: The expansion of the uterus and the pressures of supporting a growing baby impose added stress on blood vessels. This makes bruising more likely to occur.
Elevated blood volume: Total blood volume increases significantly during pregnancy. This places even more pressure on blood vessels and can increase the severity of bruising when it occurs.
Hormonal changes: The dramatic changes in hormone production during pregnancy affect the way blood clots, making blood vessels more likely to rupture.
Signs & Symptoms of Pregnancy Bruising
The signs and symptoms of pregnancy bruising include skin discoloration and tenderness. However, if bruising occurs in deeper tissues, identifying it can be more challenging.
Skin discoloration: Discolored skin caused by bruising may appear yellow, purple, green, blue, or black. The colors will change as the bruise heals.
Swelling and tenderness: Bruised tissue is usually tender when touched and shows mild swelling.
Discomfort and pain: The tenderness associated with bruising is normal but can become painful if the bruising is pronounced or located in a susceptible area.
If bruising occurs in tissues deep enough that skin discoloration does not appear, pain or discomfort may be the only detectable signs. If you experience unexplained pain, discomfort, or tenderness, you should see your doctor at your earliest convenience.
Complications Associated With Pregnancy Bruising
The potential complications of pregnancy bruising include:
Clotting conditions: If an underlying clotting disorder is present, bruising can become more severe during pregnancy. Conditions like these should be closely monitored.
Excessive bleeding: In some cases, excessive or severe bruising can indicate or cause dangerous levels of bleeding. When this occurs, medical attention should be sought immediately.
Preventing and Managing Pregnancy Bruising
For the reasons discussed here, pregnancy requires the use of the following bruising management and prevention strategies.
Gentle activity and care: Physical exertion should be limited or avoided during pregnancy. Daily self-care routines should be implemented with additional care.
Quality nutrition: Proper nutrition is critical during pregnancy to support the integrity of blood vessels. Nutrients that support healthy skin and blood vessels, and normalize blood clottings, such as vitamins K and C, should be taken in healthy doses.
Use of compression garments: Supportive garments like compression stockings can reduce the risk of bruising by reducing pressure on blood vessels.
Avoiding blood thinners: Always consult your healthcare professional before taking supplements or medications known to thin the blood or affect clotting.
Bruising during pregnancy is common, and in most cases, it is harmless. Even so, all changes during pregnancy should be monitored, especially potential signs of trouble like bruising. Proper management and prevention can minimize bruising and other potential risk factors.
.jpg)
Always consult a doctor or healthcare professional about any concerns you may have.
The information provided here is strictly for educational purposes and should not replace qualified medical advice.
No comments:
Post a Comment