Subchorionic Hematoma at 19 Weeks: Symptoms & Concerns

Question
Hello, I am 19 weeks pregnant and at 14 weeks was diagnosed with an sch the size of a fist sitting on my cervix. I have had brown spotting since then and my last ultrasound two weeks ago shows no change in size. My question is, is it normal to have a tightening feeling in the uterus and back that is rather uncomfortable (more painful than a cramp but not regular like a contraction) for an extended amount of time? I ask because I have experienced these for over 12 hours on an off, and with each one the baby kicks quite hard as if it is making him uncomfortable too. When should this be a concern or worth going to the ER? I have told the dr but she did not seem too concerned I just wanted a second opinion

Answer
Dear Violet,

It would not necessarily be unusual for you to be experiencing more discomfort than you would if the hematoma were not present. There is likely some additional inflammation present which would cause you to feel anything on an exaggerated basis. For instance, it is more likely that your baby is not necessarily kicking harder than normal (this condition would not typically cause any discomfort in the fetus at all), but more that you are feeling every little movement more intensely due to any inflammation that is present in the area.

Unless the discomfort would begin to become accompanied by an increase in vaginal spotting/bleeding - especially if the bleeding would change from brown to bright red - I would not be overly concerned at this point. Keep your doctor informed of any changes in your condition and always follow your instincts. But at this point, I am not hearing anything that I would necessarily be alarmed about.

I hope this has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.

Brenda