Any bleeding during the first half of a pregnancy, before the cervix is dilated (open). Because one in four women may have some spotting or slight bleeding, a threatened abortion is a common diagnosis. With rest, symptoms usually subside, and the pregnancy progresses normally. However, a threatened abortion may proceed to an actual miscarriage. If vaginal bleeding is accompanied by lower back pain or cramping abdominal pain, a miscarriage is more likely. Even without pain, bleeding can be a sign of a miscarriage or serious complication. A woman who is pregnant should immediately notify her doctor if she has vaginal bleeding or light spotting. A doctor may recommend a fetal ultrasound alone or in conjunction with a hormone level test, to rule out complications and assess the viability of the fetus. When a threatened abortion is diagnosed, a woman may be asked to decrease her level of activity or rest in bed until the bleeding stops.
The appearance of signs and symptoms of possible loss of the fetus. Vaginal bleeding with or without intermittent pain is usually the first sign. If the fetus is still alive and attachment to the uterus has not been interrupted, the pregnancy may continue. Absolute bedrest is recommended, with avoidance of coitus, douches, stress, or cathartics.