Is the incidence of fetal-to-maternal hemorrhage increased in patients with third-trimester bleeding?

Objective: If a pregnancy is complicated by third-trimester bleeding, is there a higher risk of fetal-to-maternal hemorrhage that might necessitate the administration of additional anti-D immune globulin to prevent alloimmunization in the patient who is Rh D-negative? The study objective was to analyze prospectively the incidence of fetal-to-maternal hemorrhage in pregnancies that were complicated by third trimester bleeding compared with three control groups.

Study Design: Pregnancies that were complicated by third-trimester bleeding, preterm premature rupture of the membranes, and preterm labor were identified prospectively on admission. A group of preterm patients with no complications was also collected prospectively.

Understanding and managing the back pain of pregnancy.

Approximately 50% of all pregnant women experience back pain during pregnancy. The causes and risk factors associated with the back pain encountered during pregnancy continue to be evaluated. The key to evaluating and managing these patients is the history and physical examination.