United States emergency department visits for vaginal bleeding during early pregnancy, 1993-2003.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to describe the epidemiology of emergency department (ED) visits for vaginal bleeding during early pregnancy (VBEP).

STUDY

DESIGN

We analyzed data from the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey, 1993-2003. Cases presented with a complaint of vaginal bleeding and had diagnoses consistent with presentation during early pregnancy.

RESULTS

Over the 11-year period, there were 5.4 million visits for VBEP, which represents 1.6% of all ED visits or almost 500,000 visits/year. ED visits for VBEP increased from 5.6-7.8 visits per 1000 US population (P for trend < .01). The population rates were highest in the 20-29 year age group. ED patients with VBEP were more likely to be black, Hispanic, and uninsured, as compared to women presenting for other reasons.

CONCLUSION

ED visits for VBEP are rising, particularly among younger and Hispanic women. Programs that ensure primary obstetric care would help decrease reliance on the ED for this important condition.