Case Study: Abdominal pain-what is the diagnosis?
Case Study: Abdominal pain-what is the diagnosis?  
Podcast: The Critical Care Obstetrics Podcast
Published On: Mon Oct 26 2026
Description: # Navigating Abdominal Pain in Pregnancy: A Case Discussion> Exploring critical insights from a unique case in obstetricsWelcome to this week’s discussion on a challenging case involving a 20-year-old pregnant patient presenting with severe abdominal pain. We dive into the complexities that arise in the emergency department when treating pregnant patients and the importance of thorough evaluations.## Case OverviewOur patient, a Gravida 2 Para 1 at about 20 weeks gestation, arrives at the emergency department complaining of abdominal pain rated at 10 out of 10, accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and constipation. Her initial vital signs show a blood pressure of 117/51 and a heart rate of 78, indicating she is stable upon presentation.## Common MisdiagnosesStephanie raises a critical point about how easily severe abdominal pain during pregnancy can be dismissed as mere constipation. As Suzanne points out, such symptoms are often normalized during pregnancy, potentially leading to dangerous oversights.> "I find it fascinating how willing we are to just chalk up an emergency department visit to constipation before evaluating anything else." — Stephanie MartinThis highlights the necessity for healthcare professionals to maintain a high index of suspicion when it comes to abdominal pain in pregnant patients.## Diagnostic ChallengesAs the case progresses, lab results reveal a potassium level of 3.2, which correlates with the patient's symptoms of nausea and vomiting. However, the white blood cell count at 13.5 and the discovery of 1% bands raise flags that shouldn’t be ignored. Despite the lab slip labeling these results as normal, these anomalies prompt deeper investigation.## The Role of OB ConsultsAn essential aspect discussed is the timing and necessity of involving obstetricians in such cases. Julie emphasizes that even if the patient is stable, early notification of an OB consultant can help ensure that the pregnant patient receives appropriate care throughout their stay in the ED.> "I do think there needs to be some OB involvement at some point." — Stephanie MartinThis conversation sheds light on the systemic issues in emergency settings regarding the handling of pregnant patients and the importance of timely communication between departments.## ConclusionThis case serves as a reminder of the critical thinking and collaborative efforts required in obstetric emergencies. As we continue to unravel this case in upcoming discussions, let’s reflect on how we can improve our practices and ensure that we do not overlook serious conditions masquerading as common complaints.For more in-depth discussions and case studies like this, join us at our [Patreon](https://www.patreon.com/CCOB).The experts at Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics pool their decades of experience caring for critically ill pregnant women to discuss the challenges encountered in caring for these vulnerable women.Dr Stephanie Martin is the Medical Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics and a Maternal Fetal Medicine specialist with expertise in critical care obstetrics.Suzanne McMurtry Baird, DNP, RN is the Nursing Director for  Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics with many years of experience caring for critically ill pregnant women.Julie Arafeh, RN, MS is the Simulation Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics and a leading expert in simulation.Critical Care Obstetrics Academy: https://www.clinicalconceptsinob.com/Follow us:Patreon: patreon.com/CCOBYouTube: @CriticalCareOBPodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/criticalcareob/Dr Martin's LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/stephanie-martin-65b07112aCCOB LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/clinical-concepts-in-obstetrics/Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/OBCriticalCareCCOB Facebook: ...