Variables Associated With Favorable Obstetrical Outcomes in Early Pregnancy Bleeding in the Emergency Department

Background Vaginal bleeding in early pregnancy is a frequent emergency department presentation and is associated with various obstetrical outcomes. Despite this, there has been limited research on the variables that predict less-than-preferred obstetrical outcomes in these cases. This study aims to identify predictors of preferred obstetrical outcomes for women presenting to the emergency department with early pregnancy bleeding. Methods We conducted a retrospective review of health records from an emergency department at a Canadian tertiary care center. Pregnant females presenting with vaginal bleeding before 20 weeks gestation were included. Variables analyzed included maternal age, gravidity, parity, hemoglobin levels, Rh status, cramping, socioeconomic status, and ultrasound findings. The primary outcome was a preferred outcome, defined as a full-term live birth (≥37 weeks). Less-preferred outcomes included miscarriage, preterm birth, and stillbirth. Point-of-care ultrasound and radiology ultrasound findings were also evaluated. Results A total of 422 patients were screened, and 180 were included in the analysis. Overall, 75 (41.7%) patients had a preferred outcome, while 105 (58.3%) had a less-preferred outcome. The strongest predictor of a preferred outcome was the presence of a live intrauterine pregnancy with fetal heartbeat on ultrasound, with a preferred outcome rate of 74.5% (56/76) (95% CI 59.8-88.7; p < 0.01) on point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS), and 100% (65/65); p = 0.04 for radiology-performed ultrasound. In contrast, 80.8% (21/26) of patients with findings other than a live intrauterine pregnancy on POCUS, and 100% (88/88) on radiology-performed ultrasound had a less-preferred outcome. Cramping with bleeding was associated with a higher rate of less-than-preferred outcomes (62.1%, 77/124; 95% CI 54.2-71.1; p = 0.07). Socioeconomic status was not a significant predictor, with similar outcomes above and below the poverty line. Anemia was associated with a 100% non-live birth rate, although only 5 patients were anemic. Conclusion Identification of a live intrauterine pregnancy on ultrasound is a strong predictor of a preferred outcome in early pregnancy bleeding. POCUS has the advantage of being immediately available, whereas radiology-performed ultrasound may be more definitive as a predictor. Cramping and anemia may also be associated with less-preferred outcomes, though further research is needed to confirm these findings. These predictors may help guide clinical decision-making and improve counseling for patients presenting to the emergency department with early pregnancy bleeding.