clinical features

Last reviewed 01/2018

The clinical features of a threatened abortion are:

  • uterus is normal size for dates
  • vaginal bleeding - the bleeding may be slight as faint brown discharge or a profuse red discharge with clotting
  • no products have been passed - do not confuse clots with products
  • cervix is closed, but note, the external os of a multigravida admits a finger tip
  • there is generally no pain although there may be a dull ache or discomfort due to congestion of the pelvic organs
  • pregnancy test is positive
  • fetal heart sounds and movements are observed