Your patient is a 42-year-old woman who is alert and upset, complaining of vaginal bleeding. She states that the bleeding began ten hours ago and is heavier than her normal menstrual flow. Her last menstrual period was three months ago, G3P3, and there is no other significant gynecologic history. Which of the following is the most likely cause of her signs and symptoms?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This patient is exhibiting symptoms of a spontaneous abortion, also known as a miscarriage. The heavy vaginal bleeding and lack of significant gynecologic history suggest that the bleeding is not related to pelvic inflammatory disease or menopause-related dysfunctional uterine bleeding. While ectopic pregnancy can also cause vaginal bleeding, the fact that the patient has had three previous pregnancies suggests that this is less likely.

Your Patient Is a 42-Year-Old Woman Who Is Alert and Upset