Can constipation strain cause bleeding/miscarriage?

I am now about 10 weeks pregnant and have been dealing with a considerable amount of bleeding. I have been to the ER twice thinking I had miscarried...but fortunately I still have my baby (and am hoping I don't lose it...but seeing so much red blood sure has me worried!!)

Anyway, all this bleeding began after I had been straining especially hard due to extreme constipation. The ER doctor said there is no way I could cause a miscarriage with constipation strain...but the timing of the bleeding and straining still have me worried....

Additionally, I am now terrified to work as hard as I need to to have a bowel movement... Am I being paranoid...any thoughts? Andy suggestions for constipation?

Sorry you are going through this. Did the ER doctor mention a possible subchorionic bleed? I had 2 of these while pregnant. Both times sent me to the hospital scared to death and then I was on bed rest until the bleeding stopped completely. There was no reason behind the bleeds. It just happens sometimes. My son is now 11 months old.

As for the constipation, have you tried prune juice or milk of mag?

I bled for over a month early in the pregnancy. Sometimes just spotting, and sometimes it was very heavy. My bleeding was after I strained as well. I was very swollen and irritated before the constipation, and I think the straining broke blood vessels and that was part of my problem. Just a guess in my case, but I know what your feeling. It did stop around 14/15 weeks.

If you can tolerate dried fruit, that can really help with constipation.  Prunes or dried apricots or craisins, plus lots and lots of water equals easier pooping!  Some people get relief from constipation after RNY or DS from adding some fat, like olive oil on a salad or full fat salad dressing.  I believe the stool softener Colace is also considered pregnancy safe, but check with your OB or MW. 

I don't think it can cause a m/c but it's scary to see any bleeding.  I bled on and off until 10 weeks with my daughter and she was fine, but it was really hard on me. 

I swear by MiraLax. I was so backed up I had to use an enema. Not fun. Good luck.