A miscarriage is a pregnancy that ends spontaneously prior to 20 weeks gestation. Most miscarriages, however, occur in the first trimester prior to week 13. Between 50 and 70 percent of first-trimester miscarriages are thought to be random events caused by chromosomal abnormalities in the fertilized egg, reports Baby Center. Because the first trimester of pregnancy can be a scary time for many expectant parents, it is important to know the early signs and symptoms of miscarriage.
Bleeding
Twenty to 30 percent of all pregnancies exhibit some bleeding in early pregnancy, with about 50 percent of these episodes resulting in normal pregnancies, says the American Pregnancy Association. Brown or bright red bleeding with or without cramps may occur during a miscarriage, however. Bleeding in the first trimester may occur around the time of implantation which is one to two weeks following conception. This type of bleeding is usually shorter in duration than a menstrual period and lighter in color and flow. Implantation bleeding is considered normal and does not lead to miscarriage. Bleeding associated with a miscarriage is usually heavier in duration and flow, and dark or bright red in color. During miscarriage you may expel large blood clots or fetal tissue. Only your obstetrician can determine whether you are experiencing implantation bleeding or an early miscarriage. Any type of bleeding during pregnancy should be reported to your obstetrician.
Cramping and Pain
You may experience abdominal pain and cramping early in a miscarriage. It may feel crampy or persistent, mild or sharp, or may feel more like low back pain or pelvic pressure, states Baby Center. Some women experience mild to severe back pain with or without abdominal pain. If you have both bleeding and pain, the chance of miscarriage is considerably higher. You should contact your obstetrician if you begin to experience cramping and pain. He may perform an internal examination to determine if the cervix has opened, and a trans-vaginal sonogram if miscarriage is suspected.
Decrease in Symptoms
Some women may experience a decrease in pregnancy symptoms in the early stages of miscarriage. Rapidly rising pregnancy hormones in the first trimester cause symptoms such as breast tenderness, fatigue, nausea and vomiting, and headache. During miscarriage, the hormone levels drop rapidly which may cause a sudden decrease in signs and symptoms of pregnancy. If you are pregnant and experience a change in symptoms, contact your obstetrician.
