Differential Diagnosis for a 6-Week Pregnant Woman with Brief One-Sided Lower Abdominal Pain and Light Vaginal Bleeding
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Miscarriage (threatened or inevitable): This is the most likely diagnosis given the symptoms of vaginal bleeding and abdominal pain in a pregnant woman. The brief, one-sided nature of the pain and light bleeding are consistent with a threatened miscarriage, where the pregnancy is still viable but at risk.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Ectopic pregnancy: Although less common than miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy is a possible cause of one-sided abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding in early pregnancy. The pain is often more severe and persistent than in miscarriage.
- Corpus luteum cyst rupture: A corpus luteum cyst can rupture and cause one-sided abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding, especially if the cyst is large or hemorrhagic.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Ruptured ectopic pregnancy: This is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms can include severe, sudden abdominal pain, heavy vaginal bleeding, and signs of shock.
- Ovarian torsion: Although rare in pregnancy, ovarian torsion can cause severe, one-sided abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding. It is a surgical emergency that requires prompt treatment.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Molar pregnancy: A molar pregnancy can cause vaginal bleeding and abdominal pain, but it is relatively rare and often associated with other symptoms such as excessive uterine size or severe morning sickness.
- Appendicitis: Although appendicitis is uncommon in early pregnancy, it can cause one-sided abdominal pain and vomiting. It is essential to consider this diagnosis, especially if the pain is severe and persistent.