Managing Complications in Pregnancy and Childbirth: - IAWG

ABDOMINAL PAIN IN EARLY PREGNANCY S-115PROBLEM• The woman is experiencing abdominal pain in the first 22 weeks ofpregnancy. Abdominal pain may be the first presentation in seriouscomplications such as abortion or ectopic pregnancy.GENERAL MANAGEMENT• Make a rapid evaluation of the general condition of the womanincluding vital signs (pulse, blood pressure, respiration,temperature).• If shock is suspected, immediately begin treatment (page S-1).Even if signs of shock are not present, keep shock in mind as youevaluate the woman further because her status may worsen rapidly.If shock develops, it is important to begin treatment immediately.Note: Appendicitis should be suspected in any woman havingabdominal pain. Appendicitis can be confused with other more commonproblems in pregnancy which cause abdominal pain (e.g. ectopicpregnancy, abruptio placentae, twisted ovarian cysts, pyelonephritis).