My gums have started bleeding when I brush. I never had this before pregnancy. Should I be worried?
This is called pregnancy gingivitis and it's very common in the first trimester. Rising progesterone levels increase blood flow to gum tissue, making them more sensitive and prone to bleeding. Use a soft-bristled brush, rinse with salt water, and schedule a dental cleaning — dentists are safe to visit during pregnancy and actually recommend it.
My dentist told me the same thing when I went in panicking! She said to use an antiseptic mouthwash like Listerine (alcohol-free) and it cleared up by second trimester. Don't skip dental visits just because you're pregnant — untreated gum disease has been linked to preterm labor.
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