Subchorionic Hemorrhage, Spotting & Bleeding in Early Pregnancy: What Every Mom Should Know

Finding out you’re pregnant is one of life’s most exciting moments, but the early weeks can also bring unexpected worries. Many expecting mothers turn to Google and search phrases like:

• “Why am I spotting during pregnancy?”

• “Bleeding at 6 weeks pregnant”

• “Is brown discharge normal in the first trimester?”

• “Can I bleed and still have a heartbeat?”

If you’re searching for answers, you’re not alone, and one of the most common reasons for bleeding or spotting in early pregnancy is something called a subchorionic hemorrhage (SCH). While the name sounds alarming, SCH is actually quite common and, in most cases, manageable with proper monitoring.

What Is a Subchorionic Hemorrhage (SCH)?

A subchorionic hemorrhage (also called a subchorionic hematoma) occurs when blood collects between the wall of the uterus and the membranes surrounding the developing embryo. On an ultrasound, this may appear as a dark or crescent-shaped area next to the gestational sac.

SCH is one of the leading causes of first-trimester bleeding, which is why so many moms discover it after noticing spotting or bleeding and coming in for an early scan.

Why Does SCH Happen?

There isn’t always a clear cause, but contributing factors may include:

• Implantation changes in early pregnancy

• Blood vessel irritation or separation at the placenta

• History of miscarriage or clotting issues

• Assisted reproductive technologies (like IVF)

Many women develop SCH without any risk factors at all, it can happen in perfectly healthy pregnancies.

Is Bleeding or Spotting in Early Pregnancy Normal?

Light spotting or mild bleeding can be common in early pregnancy, especially between 4 and 9 weeks. However, because bleeding can have different causes, it’s important to be evaluated. SCH is a frequent explanation, but only an ultrasound can confirm it.

Pregnant women often search:

• “Spotting at 5 weeks pregnant”

• “Brown discharge at 6 weeks”

• “Bright red bleeding with no cramps”

These symptoms can be frightening, but they don’t always indicate miscarriage. With SCH, it’s possible to bleed and still have a healthy baby and a strong heartbeat.

What Does SCH Bleeding Look Like?

Bleeding from a subchorionic hemorrhage may look like

Appearance What It Means

Brown spotting Old blood clearing out

Pink discharge Light bleeding or mild

irritation

Bright red bleeding Fresh blood, may be heavier

On & off spotting Common with SCH as it resolves

Some women have no bleeding at all; their SCH is discovered only during a routine ultrasound.

How Is SCH Diagnosed?

The only reliable way to diagnose a subchorionic hemorrhage is through an obstetric ultrasound. This is why so many moms choose a private ultrasound clinic early in pregnancy, for reassurance, peace of mind, and visual confirmation of what’s happening.

At True Ultrasound, SCH can be assessed through:

• 2D ultrasounds (standard early pregnancy imaging)

• Follow-up scans to monitor hematoma size and healing

Does SCH Affect the Baby?

Most SCHs, especially smaller ones diagnosed in the first trimester, resolve on their own.

Outcomes can depend on:

• Size of the hematoma

• Location (near placenta vs. near the sac)

• Timing of diagnosis (earlier SCHs generally have better outcomes)

The reassuring news?

Thousands of pregnancies with SCH result in healthy babies.

How Is SCH Managed?

There’s no medication that instantly removes a hematoma, but doctors often recommend:

• Rest and avoiding strenuous exercise

• Avoiding heavy lifting

• Staying hydrated

• Pelvic rest (no intercourse or cervical stimulation)

• Routine ultrasound monitoring

Your healthcare provider may personalize your plan depending on the hematoma’s size and your symptoms.

Can I Still Have a Healthy Pregnancy With SCH?

Yes. Many women experience spotting or bleeding in early pregnancy and go on to have normal, full-term pregnancies. Monitoring is key, especially if bleeding continues or becomes heavy.

When Should I Call My Doctor?

Contact your provider if you experience:

• Heavy bleeding

• Passing clots

• Strong abdominal pain or cramping

• Dizziness or weakness

• Bleeding that worsens instead of improving

Trust your instincts, there is no such thing as a silly pregnancy question.

Why Early Ultrasound Matters

Seeing your baby’s heartbeat and confirming the source of bleeding provides tremendous relief during a stressful time. Many moms schedule an early ultrasound simply for reassurance.

At True Ultrasound, we offer:

• 2D ultrasounds for early pregnancy confirmation

• Follow-up scans to monitor SCH

• 3D/4D ultrasounds for bonding and detailed imaging later in pregnancy

• Early gender DNA blood testing (SneakPeek) with next-day results

Your peace of mind matters, and visual reassurance can make all the difference.

Final Thoughts

Bleeding or spotting in early pregnancy doesn’t automatically mean something is wrong. A subchorionic hemorrhage is a common and often temporary condition that can be safely monitored. Most SCH cases resolve without impacting the baby, and many moms go on to deliver healthy, happy newborns.

If you are experiencing spotting, bleeding, brown discharge, or have been told you have SCH, an ultrasound can provide clarity, comfort, and a plan.

Book Your Reassurance Scan Today

Your pregnancy journey should feel exciting, not uncertain.

Let us help you understand what’s happening and check on your baby with a gentle, professional ultrasound experience.

📍 True Ultrasound – Lake Forest, Orange County

✨ Personalized care. Clear answers. Beautiful memories.