posted 25th February 2026
Increased Blood Supply in Early Pregnancy: What It Means for Your Body
Early pregnancy is a time of remarkable change. From the moment implantation occurs, your body begins adapting to support your growing baby — and one of the most important changes is an increase in blood supply.
At Daisyscan, we often speak with expectant parents who notice new or unusual symptoms in the first trimester and wonder if they’re normal. Increased blood flow is not only normal — it’s essential. Here’s what you need to know.
Why Does Blood Supply Increase in Early Pregnancy?
During early pregnancy, your body begins producing higher levels of hormones, particularly progesterone and oestrogen. These hormones:
- Stimulate the growth of the placenta
- Encourage the uterus to expand
- Increase blood vessel formation
- Boost overall blood volume
In fact, your blood volume can increase by 30–50% over the course of pregnancy, with changes beginning very early on.
This increased circulation ensures your developing baby receives oxygen and nutrients through the placenta, while also helping your body adapt to pregnancy’s demands.
Common Symptoms of Increased Blood Supply
The rise in blood volume and circulation can cause several noticeable symptoms in early pregnancy:
1. Feeling Warm or Flushed
You may feel warmer than usual due to increased circulation and metabolic activity.
2. Mild Swelling
Some women notice slight swelling in the hands, feet, or face, even in early weeks.
3. Visible Veins
Veins in the breasts, abdomen, or legs may appear more prominent as blood flow increases.
4. Nasal Congestion or Bleeding
Increased blood flow to mucous membranes can cause a “stuffy nose” or occasional mild nosebleeds.
5. Dizziness or Light-headedness
As blood vessels expand and blood pressure shifts, some women experience brief dizziness.
6. Breast Changes
Breasts may feel fuller, tender, warmer, or heavier due to increased blood supply preparing for milk production.
Is Increased Blood Flow Ever a Concern?
In most cases, increased blood supply in early pregnancy is completely normal and a positive sign that your body is adapting well.
However, there are certain symptoms that should always be checked:
- Heavy vaginal bleeding
- Severe abdominal pain
- Persistent severe dizziness or fainting
- Sudden significant swelling in one leg
- Severe headaches with vision changes
While mild spotting can occur in early pregnancy, heavy bleeding is not considered normal and should be assessed promptly.
How Ultrasound Reflects Early Circulatory Changes
At early pregnancy scans, increased blood flow can sometimes be seen around the gestational sac and developing placenta. These changes help confirm that the pregnancy is progressing and implanting correctly.
At Daisyscan, our early reassurance scans (typically from 6–10 weeks) allow you to:
- Confirm the location of the pregnancy
- Detect a heartbeat
- Assess early development
- Gain reassurance during those first uncertain weeks
Seeing everything developing as it should can ease anxiety — especially if you’re experiencing new or unexpected symptoms.
When to Seek Advice
While most circulatory changes are normal, always seek medical advice if something feels unusual or worrying. Trust your instincts — reassurance is never a waste of time.
If you're unsure whether your symptoms are typical, a scan can provide clarity and peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
An increased blood supply in early pregnancy is one of the body’s incredible adaptations to nurture new life. Although it can cause noticeable symptoms, it is usually a healthy and necessary part of pregnancy.
If you’re in your first trimester and would like reassurance, the team at Daisyscan is here to support you with professional, compassionate care.
Early pregnancy can feel overwhelming — but you don’t have to navigate it alone.