Understanding Vanishing Twin Syndrome: Symptoms & What to Expect

Question
Hello Dr. Kandeel,
I am 16wks pregnant. At around 10 weeks pregnant I began bleeding, cramping and it feels like I am having Braxton Hicks contractions sporadically.I was assessed at the ER and I was told that ultrasound showed an active well fetus with normal heartbeat and to follow up. Upon doing so my doctor told me that she saw an empty sac and a live baby. I received another ultrasound at 14wk 5days and the results were a long name I forgot and cant pronounce but explained as another bloody sac near baby that can cause miscarriage but many births have been successful. I am currently still bleeding and clotting with pain, they dont have me on any restrictions. Should I be worried? I know there is nothing they can do but is there something that I can do to avoid a miscarriage, like bed rest? I am very nauseous and underweight and I am scared that the stress will make it worse. I feel like my doctors aren't really concerned they just say that I'm okay. Bleeding everyday for 6 weeks with Braxton Hicks can't be okay. Should I get a second opinion or put myself on bed rest? Or am I just over reacting. I had a miscarriage in Jan. 09 and had an umbilical and inguinal hernia repair April 09, which resulted in a femoral pinched nerve,should these factors also be considered?
Thanks for reading
Monica

Answer
Dear Monica

Seeking a second opinion seems to be a wise choice in your situation. Constant bleeding and cramping in a 16 weeks pregnancy cannot be normal under any circumstances. I advise bed rest till bleeding stops or becomes minimal before going to the doctor's office. Bleeding and crampings in many occassions can be early signs for a miscarriage. Bed rest is the first line of management in your situation.

The problems that happened with your hernia surgery and femoral nerve entrapements have nothing to do with your complaints.

I wish you the best of luck and i urge you to send me again should you have any worries.