Physicians estimate that 10 to 20 percent of known pregnancies result in a miscarriage, according to the Mayo Clinic. That number is probably higher, because many miscarriages occur very early in pregnancy, before a woman realizes that she is pregnant. The majority of miscarriages occur during the first trimester, or the first 12 weeks of the pregnancy.
Signs of a Spontaneous Miscarriage
A woman who suffers from a spontaneous miscarriage will experience bleeding from the vagina, or spotting. While this is a common sign of miscarriage, the symptom alone is not an indicator of miscarriage. Many women bleed slightly early in their pregnancy and go on to have normal pregnancies and healthy babies. A woman experiencing a spontaneous miscarriage may experience pain or cramping similar to menstrual cramps. She may also expel fluid or tissue from the vagina. It is normal for women who experience a miscarriage to notice reduced symptoms of pregnancy, such as morning sickness or breast sensitivity.
Signs of a Silent Miscarriage
It is possible to suffer a miscarriage without exhibiting any external symptoms. In some cases, the first sign that something is wrong with a pregnancy may be when a visit to the obstetrician reveals lack of fetal growth or heartbeat. During an incomplete miscarriage, part of the fetus remains in the uterus. During a missed miscarriage, the entire fetus remains in the uterus after death. The doctor will admit the mother to the hospital to induce labor and deliver the stillborn fetus. The procedure used depends on how far along in the pregnancy the woman was before the silent miscarriage.
Signs of Complications after a Miscarriage
It is possible to develop complications after suffering a miscarriage. A septic miscarriage occurs when an infection develops after the miscarriage. After suffering from a miscarriage, watch for flu-like symptoms, including chills, fever and body aches. Continued vaginal discharge, particularly discharge that is thick with an unpleasant odor is also a sign of an infection. Left untreated, a septic miscarriage can affect future fertility or even lead to death. The University of Maryland Medical Center also reports that, although participating in normal, everyday activities, such as exercise or sex, are not responsible for miscarriages, many women suffer from emotional issues such as depression or feelings of guilt after experiencing one. Whether you experience physical symptoms of a septic miscarriage or emotional side effects after a miscarriage, it is important to seek treatment from your healthcare provider.
