Dear mad4dmb,

If you are bleeding and in pain, see your health care provider immediately. Your symptoms may or may not be associated with a miscarriage — early pregnancy loss. A health care provider can make a diagnosis and, if necessary, provide a pregnancy test. For the nearest Planned Parenthood health center, call 1-800-230-PLAN.

Early pregnancy loss is fairly common — it occurs in 15 percent to 20 percent of all pregnancies. Most early pregnancy losses happen during the first trimester (first 12 weeks) of pregnancy. Some typical symptoms of early pregnancy loss include slight vaginal bleeding or spotting, severe abdominal pain, and severe cramps. However, bleeding and pain are also associated with other medical issues.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.