What causes bleeding gums during early pregnancy?

Many female friends whose gums are normally healthy notice bleeding gums in the early stages of pregnancy. Does this mean that there is a problem with the gums? Actually, it is not. Bleeding gums in early pregnancy, like gestational high blood pressure, are symptoms that only occur during pregnancy. So, what is the cause of bleeding gums in early pregnancy?

Some pregnant women often experience bleeding gums, edema, and sensitivity in the early stages of pregnancy. The gums bleed when touched lightly. This disease is called "pregnancy gingivitis."

The increase of estrogen and estrogens in the expectant mother's body causes the capillaries of the gums to expand, bend, and weaken their elasticity, resulting in blood stasis and increased permeability of the blood vessel walls, leading to gingivitis. It usually appears around the third month of pregnancy, and will gradually disappear as the pregnancy progresses and after delivery. About 30% to 75% of pregnant women will be affected by gingivitis. In addition to pregnancy symptoms, some oral factors can also cause bleeding gums. The expectant mother's taste changes due to morning sickness, which causes the oral cavity to be insufficiently cleaned and the bacteria in the oral cavity to multiply rapidly.

Pregnant women with gingivitis should not only brush their teeth frequently and keep their mouths clean, but also eat more fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C. They can also take vitamin C tablets to increase the elasticity of capillaries and reduce their permeability. Drink more milk on a regular basis to supplement high-quality protein and strengthen teeth.

In addition, studies have shown that pregnant women with tooth root diseases may cause their babies to be born prematurely. Some experts and scholars believe that the infection caused by root disease bacteria in other parts of the human body is a key factor causing premature birth of babies. Root disease bacteria can also enter the fetus from the mother's body through the umbilical cord and directly harm the fetus, causing premature birth.

What to do if your gums bleed during early pregnancy

Expectant mothers with bleeding gums can go to the dental hospital for one or two oral care to completely eliminate dental plaque and stains and reduce the growth of bacteria. Brush your teeth after meals and use anti-sensitivity or periodontal disease whitening toothpaste to reduce tooth swelling and bleeding gums. Eat more fresh fruits and vegetables containing vitamin C. You can also take it in tablet form to increase capillary elasticity and reduce its permeability.

It should be noted that if expectant mothers do not solve it in time, gingivitis will worsen, even develop into periodontitis, and increase the probability of premature birth. If your gums bleed frequently and cause pain, you should see a doctor immediately. In addition, you should seek help from a dentist immediately if the following conditions occur: swollen and sensitive gums, shrunken gums, persistent bad breath, loose teeth, etc. If a tumor appears in the mouth, you should seek medical attention even if it does not cause pain or cause other symptoms. For women who are preparing for pregnancy, it is recommended to go to the hospital for a periodontal examination before pregnancy to treat existing gingivitis or periodontitis.