Researchers and authors from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology with Washington University report women who experience vaginal bleeding early in a twin pregnancy may be at increased risk of pregnancy complications. More than 2,000 women were included in the study. The study pool was narrowed significantly after certain medical conditions and exclusions were made. Some exclusions included placenta previa and twin-to-twin transfusion. Of the 2,000 women, only 175 experienced vaginal bleeding early in the twin pregnancy. Researchers were specifically looking for pregnancy complications like preterm birth, premature abruption of membranes and preeclampsia.

Conclusion: The 175 women who experienced early vaginal bleeding were more likely to suffer pregnancy complications than the control group. Some pregnancy complications, like preeclampsia and placental abruption, can be life-threatening for both mother and fetus. If early vaginal bleeding is reported, doctors should watch the patient carefully for warning signs.

Source: McPherson JA, Odibo AO, Shanks AL, Roehl KA, Macones GA, Cahill AG. Adverse outcomes in twin pregnancies complicated by early vaginal bleeding. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2012 Oct 22. pii: S0002-9378(12)01975-8. doi: 10.1016/j.ajog.2012.10.875.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23098666