Why am I experiencing nosebleeds?

During pregnancy your heart pumps 40% more blood volume to support the growing fetus that you are carrying. As a result of this increase in blood volume and changes in blood cells/vessels in your body, nosebleeds can occur.  Tiny blood vessels in your nose can become engorged, dry out and rupture causing your nose to bleed.  It is the combination of increased blood flow in the nose and sinus area and dryness that make nosebleeds more common.  One of the ways to prevent dryness is to use a humidifier in your bedroom while you sleep.  Additionally, you can use a saline nose rinse to keep the nasal passages moist and petroleum jelly around your nostrils before going to bed.  When you blow your nose be extra gentle and use a soft tissue around the nasal area.  If you experience a nosebleed treat them in the usual way by applying pressure and something cold over the nose.  You can insert a tampon into your nose and apply pressure for an alternative strategy to stop the bleeding. It is very unusual for nosebleeds to occur as a result of a serious medical condition such as high blood pressure or a bleeding disorder.  Pregnancy related nosebleeds usually subside quickly, but if you cannot stop the bleeding, call your Obstetrician or health care provider.