A miscarriage is the loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week. Miscarriages can happen to anyone, and it can be an emotionally and physically stressful experience.

About 10-20% of known pregnancies end in miscarriage, and many miscarriages happen before a woman even knows she is pregnant. It is essential to know the signs and symptoms of a miscarriage, so you can identify if you or someone you know is experiencing one.

1. Vaginal Bleeding

Vaginal bleeding is the most common sign of a miscarriage. It may start as light spotting and progress to heavy bleeding with clots. It can happen alone or with abdominal cramps and pain.

If you notice vaginal bleeding during early pregnancy, it is essential to contact your healthcare provider immediately.

2. Abdominal Cramps and Pain

Abdominal cramps are common during pregnancy. However, if the cramps are severe and accompanied by vaginal bleeding, they may signal a miscarriage. The pain may be felt on one side or both sides of the lower abdominal area.

Some women describe it as similar to period cramps, while others describe it as stabbing or sharp pain.

3. Discharge of Tissue or Clots from the Vagina

During a miscarriage, the body tries to expel the fetal tissue. The tissue may pass through the vagina and appear as blood clots or pinkish-gray or white tissue. The discharge may be accompanied by cramps and pain.

4. Sudden Decrease in Pregnancy Symptoms

During early pregnancy, you may experience nausea, vomiting, breast tenderness, and fatigue. If these symptoms suddenly disappear before the 12th week of pregnancy, it may indicate a miscarriage.

However, disappearing symptoms do not always signal a miscarriage as some women may experience a decrease in symptoms temporarily.

5. Absence of Fetal Heartbeat

A fetal heartbeat is usually detected on an ultrasound by 7-8 weeks of pregnancy. If your healthcare provider cannot detect a fetal heartbeat during routine prenatal visits, it may indicate a miscarriage.

It is essential to follow up on a lack of fetal heartbeat, as sometimes, the absence of a heartbeat can be a result of incorrect timing or positioning of the ultrasound probe.

6. Fluid Discharge from the Vagina

A sudden gush or trickle of fluid from the vagina during early pregnancy may indicate the rupture of the membranes around the fetus.

Rupture of membranes can cause miscarriage or premature labor, and it is essential to contact your healthcare provider immediately.

7. Symptoms of Infection

If you experience fever, chills, abdominal pain, or foul-smelling vaginal discharge, it may indicate an infection. Infection during pregnancy increases the risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, and other complications.

It is essential to contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible if you experience any infection symptoms.

8. Back Pain and Cramping

Lower back pain and cramping can be a sign of a miscarriage. It is often accompanied by vaginal bleeding and abdominal pain. Back pain and cramping can also be due to other issues like urinary tract infection, kidney stones, or gastrointestinal issues.

It is essential to contact your healthcare provider to rule out any serious issues.

9. Extreme Fatigue and Weakness

Extreme fatigue and weakness can be a sign of a miscarriage. During early pregnancy, your body is producing a lot of hormones, which can cause fatigue.

However, if the fatigue and weakness are sudden and accompanied by vaginal bleeding and abdominal pain, it may signal a miscarriage.

10. Anxiety and Depression

Experiencing a miscarriage can cause feelings of sadness, anxiety, and depression. It is essential to seek emotional support from friends, family, or a healthcare provider.

Seeking professional help like a therapist or a support group can also help cope with the emotional stress of a miscarriage.

Conclusion

Knowing the signs and symptoms of a miscarriage can help you and your healthcare provider identify any potential complications early.

If you experience any symptoms, it is essential to contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible to receive proper treatment and follow-up care. It is also essential to seek emotional support to cope with the stress of a miscarriage.