Bleeding in Early Pregnancy: Care in Seoul, Korea

Implantation bleeding

A small amount of blood about 7–8 days after sex can be implantation bleeding. Spotting does not always mean pregnancy, so confirm with a pregnancy test.

Bleeding after pregnancy is confirmed

We check whether there is any sign of threatened miscarriage using ultrasound to look for blood collecting in the uterus, and a speculum exam to find any other source of bleeding. Because bleeding is the only symptom of cervical cancer, a Pap smear is part of the early pregnancy checkup.

How worried should I be?

Most bleeding passes without harm. There is little that can actively prevent miscarriage beyond rest and sometimes hormone medicine, so unless bleeding is heavy, follow your doctor's advice rather than worrying excessively. Many miscarriages today are 'missed' miscarriages found only on ultrasound, which is why regular checkups matter.

Cramping

Mild lower abdominal pain is normal as the uterus and its ligaments stretch. You can mention it at your next scheduled visit.

When to go immediately

Heavy bleeding, severe abdominal pain, dizziness or fainting need urgent care; see after-hours emergencies. A little spotting at night can wait until clinic hours after resting.