A miscarriage is the sudden end of pregnancy before the 20th week. When a pregnancy ends after that, it is referred to as a stillbirth. According to the Mayo Clinic, about 10 to 20 percent of known pregnancies end in stillbirth. Most miscarriages are a result of the fetus not developing normally. According to the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, the cause of the fetus not developing normally is a chromosomal abnormality resulting from the sperm or egg. When the miscarriage occurs in the second trimester, problems with the cervix or uterus are often attributed to the miscarriage.
Spotting
Vaginal spotting or bleeding is a sign of a miscarriage, although there are many instances of spotting early in a pregnancy that do not result in a miscarriage. Early spotting in a normal pregnancy is fairly common.
Pain
Pain in the lower abdomen is a sign of a miscarriage. This can be accompanied by cramping. The pain and cramping can also occur in the lower back.
Discharge
Fluid passing from the vagina is a sign of miscarriage. There can also be a discharge of tissue. According to The National Infertility Association, the fluid can start out as dark brown and change to red or pink.
Other Signs
A sign of a miscarriage is a decrease in the tenderness of breasts. The breasts can also have a decrease in fullness. The fullness and tenderness result from being pregnant. There can also be an absence of fetal movement and the sound of a heartbeat.
Infection
In some cases, an infection can develop in the uterus from a miscarriage. This is called a septic miscarriage. The signs and symptoms associated with a septic miscarriage include chills and a fever. There can be body aches and vaginal discharge that is thick and has a foul odor.
