Version July 2025
Please read the Disclaimer at the end of this page.
What are discharge instructions? —
Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of yourself after getting medical care in the emergency department ("ED").
What should I know? —
You came to the ED for bleeding late in your pregnancy. This means bleeding after you've been pregnant for 20 weeks or longer.
Many things can cause bleeding in late pregnancy, including:
●Problems with the placenta
●A tear in the uterus
●A problem in the vagina or cervix
●Cervical insufficiency (when the cervix starts to open too early in pregnancy)
●Preterm labor (when labor starts too early, before 37 weeks of pregnancy)
●A problem with the blood vessels in the umbilical cord
You might have gotten medicine or other treatments in the ED. The doctors think it is safe for you to go home now. But they might not be able to figure out why you are bleeding the first time they see you. It is important to follow up with your doctor or midwife.
You might be waiting on test results. The staff will notify you if there are concerning results.
How do I care for myself at home? —
Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure you understand exactly what you need to do to care for yourself. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
You should also do the following:
●Call your regular doctor or midwife and tell them you were in the ED. Make a follow-up appointment.
●Until your bleeding stops:
•Try to rest if you feel tired.
•Avoid heavy lifting.
•Do not put anything in your vagina, like douches or tampons.
•Follow your doctor's instructions about physical activity, including work, exercise, and sex.
•Do not take aspirin or ibuprofen (sample brand names: Advil, Motrin). These medicines can increase bleeding.
●Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
When should I get emergency help?
●Return to the ED if you:
•Have constant belly pain
•Have a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
•Start to bleed a lot more
•Feel extremely weak, lightheaded, or confused, or feel like you might pass out
When should I call the doctor or midwife? —
Call for advice if:
●You have more blood, mucus, or fluid leaking from your vagina.
●You have 6 or more contractions in 1 hour. This means your contractions are 10 minutes apart or less.
●Your contractions are getting stronger and are painful.
●You feel little or no movement from your baby for over 2 hours. Your baby should move at least 10 times every 2 hours.
●You have new or worsening problems.
Patient education: Bleeding in late pregnancy (The Basics)
Patient education: Activity during pregnancy (The Basics)
Patient education: Prenatal care (The Basics)
