Coughing up blood during pregnancy

Coughing up blood during pregnancy should be assessed promptly, particularly with breathlessness, chest pain or faintness. Pregnancy can change circulation and increase the need to investigate symptoms that might affect the lungs, while a sore throat or respiratory infection can also cause small blood streaks.

Blood may come from irritated gums, the nose or throat rather than the lungs, so describe exactly what happened. Chest infections, pneumonia and bronchiectasis can produce blood-stained mucus. Pulmonary embolism is an urgent possibility when coughing up blood occurs with sudden breathlessness, chest pain, a fast heartbeat or collapse. Tuberculosis and lung cancer may be considered in selected circumstances; coughing up blood does not mean that either condition is present.

Contact your maternity team, doctor or urgent care service for advice today, even if the amount was small. Keep a note of the colour and amount, how many times it happened, and whether you have fever, leg swelling or pain. Bring a list of prescribed medicines and supplements. Do not take cough or pain remedies during pregnancy unless a clinician or pharmacist confirms they are suitable.

Call emergency services for difficult or rapidly worsening breathing, chest pain, faintness, confusion, blue or grey lips, or bleeding that is heavy or continues. Sudden one-sided leg swelling with chest symptoms also needs urgent assessment. Do not drive yourself if you feel faint or short of breath.

Ask which assessment is safest at your stage of pregnancy, whether your medicines need review, and which symptoms should send you straight to emergency care. Ask how results will be shared with your maternity team.