When are vaginal exams contraindicated during pregnancy?

Vaginal exams are contraindicated when vaginal bleeding is present because this could indicate a potential complication, such as placenta previa or placental abruption. In these scenarios, performing a vaginal examination could exacerbate the bleeding or cause further injury to the placenta or fetal membranes, leading to more significant risks for both the mother and the fetus. The presence of vaginal bleeding warrants immediate evaluation and often leads to the recommendation for a more conservative approach, prioritizing the safety and well-being of both the mother and the fetus.

In contrast, vaginal exams may still be appropriate in other circumstances: during labor to assess cervical dilation and effacement, when there is fetal distress, or following the rupture of membranes, as long as the condition is deemed stable and the examination is conducted with caution to prevent complications.