Subchorionic Haematoma Recovery
A subchorionic haematoma, sometimes called a subchorionic bleed, is a collection of blood between the uterine wall and the chorionic membrane. It is a common finding on early pregnancy scans and a frequent cause of first-trimester bleeding. For most women, the haematoma resolves on its own and the pregnancy continues normally, but monitoring is important.
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How a Subchorionic Haematoma Is Managed
Most small haematomas are monitored with repeat ultrasounds to check that they are shrinking and that the baby's growth and heartbeat remain on track. There is no specific medication to dissolve a haematoma; the body reabsorbs the blood over weeks. Large haematomas, or those located near the placental attachment, carry a slightly higher risk of complications and may prompt more frequent scans. Your team may advise avoiding strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and sex until the bleed has resolved, though strict bed rest is not usually recommended.
Recovery and Prognosis
The majority of subchorionic haematomas resolve by the late first or early second trimester without affecting the pregnancy. You may have intermittent brown or dark bleeding as the old blood is expelled, which is normal and not a sign the haematoma is growing. Bright red bleeding or cramping should be reported promptly. Once the haematoma has resolved on scan, your pregnancy is typically treated as low-risk. Most women with a subchorionic haematoma go on to have a healthy baby.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Will a subchorionic haematoma harm my baby?
Most do not. Small haematomas usually resolve without affecting the pregnancy at all.
2. How long does it take for the haematoma to go away?
Typically a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on size, and it is monitored by ultrasound.
3. Is brown blood normal with a subchorionic haematoma?
Yes, brown or dark blood is old blood being expelled and is usually a reassuring sign of resolution.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always contact your midwife, GP, or maternity unit if you experience bleeding or pain in pregnancy. In an emergency, call 999.
Further reading:
Related articles:
- bleeding-after-sex-early-pregnancy.md
- low-lying-placenta-early-pregnancy.md
- coping-while-waiting-scan-after-bleeding.md