Introduction
A subchorionic hematoma is a gathering of blood between the outer wall of the placenta and the inner wall of the womb (uterus). The placenta is the organ that nourishes the unborn baby (fetus). The baby gets his or her blood supply and nutrients through the placenta.
This condition can cause vaginal bleeding. If there has been little or no vaginal bleeding, early small hematomas usually shrink on their own and do not affect your baby or pregnancy. When bleeding starts later in pregnancy, or if the hematoma is larger or occurs in older pregnant women, the condition may be more serious. Larger hematomas may get bigger, which increases the chances of miscarriage. This condition also increases the risk of:
Premature separation of the
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What increases the risk?
You are more likely to develop this condition if:
You were treated with fertility medicines.
You conceived through in vitro fertilization (IVF).
What are the signs or symptoms?
Symptoms of this condition include:
Vaginal spotting or bleeding.
Contractions of the uterus. These cause abdominal pain.
Sometimes you may have no symptoms (you are asymptomatic) and the bleeding may only be seen when ultrasound images are taken (transvaginal ultrasound).
How is this diagnosed?
This condition is diagnosed based on a physical exam. This will include a pelvic exam. You may also have other tests, including:
Blood tests.
Urine tests.
Ultrasound of the abdomen.
How is this treated?
Treatment for this condition can vary. Treatment may include:
Watchful waiting. You will be monitored closely for any changes in bleeding. During this stage:
The hematoma may be reabsorbed by the body.
The hematoma may separate the fluid-filled space containing the embryo (gestational sac) from the wall of the womb (endometrium).
Medicines.
Bed rest. This may be needed until the bleeding