You are caring for a patient who is 36 weeks pregnant. She states that she has been experiencing vaginal bleeding after intercourse, and denies any associated pain. Vital signs are: heart rate 84, respirations 18, blood pressure 102/72 mmHg, and warm, dry skin. The most likely cause of this patient's vaginal bleeding is:

Question

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Vaginal bleeding after intercourse in a pregnant patient may indicate placenta previa, which is when the placenta is located near or covers the cervix. This can cause painless vaginal bleeding, especially after sexual activity. Spontaneous abortion (A) would typically involve cramping and significant bleeding, and abruptio placentae (C) would involve painful bleeding with uterine contractions. False labor (D) may cause vaginal discharge but not typically bleeding. The patient's vital signs are stable, which is reassuring, but this finding alone does not necessarily rule out placenta previa. Immediate referral to a specialist and possibly ultrasound imaging would be necessary to confirm the diagnosis and determine the appropriate management.

You Are Caring for a Patient Who Is 36 Weeks