Webinar warns pregnant women against ignoring bleeding during pregnancy
By Chinedum Treasure
The Anambra State Ministry of Health has advised pregnant women to seek immediate medical attention whenever they experience bleeding during pregnancy, warning that it could indicate a serious medical emergency.
The warning was issued during the ministry’s monthly webinar held on Monday with the theme, “Bleeding in Pregnancy: A Warning Sign That Should Never Be Ignored.”
The session was facilitated by Dr. Tonia Mbagwu, while Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Dr. Princeton Okam, made the presentation.
Okam explained that bleeding could occur at any stage of pregnancy and range from mild spotting to severe haemorrhage. He identified miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy as possible causes in early pregnancy, while placenta praevia, placental abruption and vasa praevia could cause bleeding in later stages.
He warned that the amount of blood seen externally does not always reflect the seriousness of the condition.
According to him, heavy or increasing bleeding, severe abdominal pain, shoulder-tip pain, dizziness, weakness, confusion, paleness and changes in vital signs are warning signs requiring urgent medical attention.
He advised pregnant women not to wait at home for bleeding to stop or resort to self-medication, but to proceed immediately to the nearest health facility.
The webinar also emphasized the importance of regular antenatal care, early assessment and prompt emergency treatment to protect the lives of both mother and baby.
In her concluding remarks, Mbagwu said bleeding during pregnancy was a symptom rather than a diagnosis and should always receive proper medical assessment.
She explained that the monthly webinar was an initiative of the Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, aimed at increasing public awareness of important health issues and improving medical practice through expert knowledge sharing.
The next edition of the webinar is scheduled for November 2, 2026.
Tags: Anambra Health, Pregnancy, Maternal Health, Ministry of Health
