THREATENED ABORTION What Is a Threatened Abortion? A threatened abortion is vaginal bleeding that occurs in the first 20 weeks of pregnancy. The bleeding is sometimes accompanied by abdominal cramps. These symptoms indicate that a miscarriage is possible, which is why the condition is known as a threatened abortion or threatened miscarriage. Vaginal bleeding is fairly common among pregnant women. About 29-30 percent of women will experience bleeding during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy. Approximately 50 PERCENT of these women will carry their baby to term. The exact cause of a threatened abortion usually isn’t known. However, it’s more common among women who have previously had a miscarriage. CAUSES The exact cause is not known, though the risk factors are- bacterial or viral infection during pregnancy trauma to the abdomen advanced maternal age (over age 35) exposure to certain medications or chemicals . Diabetes Mellitus- Uncontrolled . Hypertension .Obesity DIAGNOSIS ----Pelvic examination- you doctor would do one to find the exact source of bleeding, whether it is from the cervix or uterus. ----Sonography- is done to see whether growth corresponds to the gestational age, viability of fetus and internal collection of blood. -----Blood tests- CBC and blood group. TREATMENT ----Bed rest till the bleeding stops. ----Avoid sexual intercourse. ----- Micronised progestogens orally or in injection form depending on the bleeding. LONGTERM OUTCOME Many women who experience a threatened abortion go on to deliver healthy babies. This is more likely if your cervix isn’t already dilated and if the fetus is still securely attached to the wall of your uterus. If you have abnormal hormone levels, hormone therapy can often help you carry the baby to term. Approximately 50 PERCENT of women who experience a threatened abortion don’t have a miscarriage. Most women who do miscarry will go on to have successful pregnancies in the future. To be continued----