Question:

Is it normal to experience brown spotting often in your first trimester of pregnancy?

Answered by Carl Smith, MD, OB-GYN:

Yes, it is common to experience vaginal spotting in the first trimester of pregnancy. Blood that has been in the uterus or vagina for a period of time will frequently be brown in color. 

You should reach out to your provider if you experience the following:

• Heavy bleeding, like you're having a heavy day while on your period. Your provider will likely recommend an ultrasound to make sure the pregnancy is progressing positively
• Heavy bleeding associated with abdominal pains. Sometimes this can indicate problems with the placenta
• Itching and burning can be signs of a vaginal infection. Your provider can offer suggestions on how to make you more comfortable

It is also common to experience this later in pregnancy. Near the time of delivery, blood or bloody show commonly occurs and is not considered to be dangerous. This is simply a sign that your mucus plug has loosened and/or has discharged.