[Vaginal bleeding in the first trimester].

Significant changes in attitudes towards patients with vaginal bleeding during the first trimester of pregnancy are taking place at the moment, and it is with this in mind that the relevant literature dealing with these patients is reviewed. The rate of miscarriage in an asymptomatic population of pregnant women is 2-4%. If vaginal bleeding occurs, about half the fetuses will have no detectable heartbeat by the time symptoms appear and miscarriage is taking place. Of the remainder, where heartbeat is demonstrated, only ten percent will miscarry despite the bleeding. The presence of an intrauterine haematoma will at most have marginal significance for the prognosis. There is no treatment that has a documented effect amongst these patients, which is why hospitalization can no longer be recommended. A possible investigational program is suggested.