Prevalence and Severity of Vaginal Bleeding among Pregnant Women in Southeast, Nigeria

Background: Vaginal bleeding during early pregnancy is a common clinical presentation that significantly affects maternal and fetal outcomes. This study aims to determine the prevalence and severity of vaginal bleeding among pregnant women in Southeast, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: This prospective descriptive study was conducted over two years, from January 2021 to December 2022, and included 3893 pregnant women (<20 weeks gestation) attending antenatal clinics or presenting at emergency departments. Data collection involved structured, interviewer-administered questionnaires, outpatient and emergency department records, and hospital medical records. Participants were categorized into two groups: women with and without vaginal bleeding in early pregnancy. Vaginal bleeding severity was classified using the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) guidelines. Statistical analysis was conducted using Microsoft Excel 2019, with frequencies and percentages used to summarize demographic and clinical data. Results: The prevalence of vaginal bleeding in early pregnancy was 23.48% (n=914). Among those with vaginal bleeding, the severity was distributed as follows: spotting (10.50%), minor haemorrhage (40.37%), major haemorrhage (39.17%), and massive haemorrhage (9.96%). The majority of participants were aged 30-39 years (54.79%) and had secondary education (64.14%). Most women with vaginal bleeding also fell within the 30-39 age group (55.25%). Conclusion: The study highlights a notable prevalence of vaginal bleeding in early pregnancy, with a significant proportion experiencing major haemorrhage. Enhanced antenatal monitoring and public health interventions are recommended to manage and mitigate complications associated with vaginal bleeding in early pregnancy.