Almost half of expectant moms experience bleeding and sore gums, known as pregnancy gingivitis. Most cases are mild and harmless, and there is a bit of inconclusive evidence that pregnancy gingivitis could be linked to preeclampsia, but so long as the infection does not spread beyond the gums, you should be fine.
What causes it?
Pregnancy hormones can make your gums swell, which leads to the gingivitis. In addition, these same hormones make your mouth more susceptible to bacteria, so the risk for oral infection greatly increases.
Tips?
Just as always, it is very important to maintain good dental health throughout the term of your pregnancy. Gentle but regular brushing and flossing can go a ways towards preventing and treating sore or bleeding gums.
Read more
Sources
- “Oral Health Care During Pregnancy and Through the Lifespan.” ACOG. Committee Opinion no. 569 from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Aug 2013. Web. Accessed 7/19/17. Available at https://www.acog.org/Resources-And-Publications/Committee-Opinions/Committee-on-Health-Care-for-Underserved-Women/Oral-Health-Care-During-Pregnancy-and-Through-the-Lifespan.
- Hugh Silk, MD, et al. “Oral Health During Pregnancy.” Am Fam Physician. 77(8):1139-1144. Web. Apr 2008.
