Ten to 25 percent of all clinically recognized pregnancies will end in miscarriage, reports the American Pregnancy Association. It is important to realize, however, that many women who experience some, or even all, of these symptoms may go on to have a healthy baby. However, if you do experience any of these signs you should contact your obstetrician for further evaluation. Your physician may do an ultrasound to check for viability and draw blood to measure your pregnancy hormone level. Although there is no way to prevent a miscarriage from happening, seeing your physician is still important while experiencing symptoms.
Bleeding
Bleeding may be a sign of impending miscarriage. Some women may experience mild spotting---a brown or pinkish discharge---during their first trimester and go on to have a healthy pregnancy. Bright red bleeding that is similar to or heavier than that of an actual period may be a sign of miscarriage. You may soak through one pad in less than one hour, which signifies severe bleeding. This bleeding is usually accompanied by strong menstrual-like cramping. During a possible miscarriage, some women may pass blood clots or tissue as well. Any type of spotting or bleeding should be brought to the attention of your doctor.
Abdominal Pain and Cramping
Some cramping is considered normal in the first trimester, as the uterus begins to stretch to accommodate the embryo. However, if cramping becomes severe and is accompanied by bright red bleeding it may be a symptom of miscarriage. For some women cramping and discomfort may be felt in the lower back. These cramps are usually stronger than one experiences during a monthly menstrual cycle. If you are experiencing moderate cramping with or without bleeding, contact your obstetrician.
Decrease in Symptoms
Many women report a decline in pregnancy symptoms prior to or at the time they experience miscarriage. When a miscarriage occurs, the level of hCG (a pregnancy hormone) begins to decline. As the hormone declines, symptoms such as breast tenderness, nausea, and fatigue may begin to diminish. It is also important to realize that as you progress out of your first trimester (12 weeks) you may begin to feel less nausea and breast tenderness in a healthy pregnancy. Any change in pregnancy symptoms should be reported to your physician.
Absence of Fetal Heart Rate
The most definitive sign of miscarriage is the absence of a fetal heart beat after six weeks gestation. The fetal heart usually stops beating prior to the start of a miscarriage. Your obstetrician may also notice that your uterus is measuring smaller than it should. This is a sign that the fetus has stopped growing. Some women may require a D&C (dilation and curettage) following a miscarriage, while others are able to miscarry naturally. It depends on the gestation of your pregnancy and your overall health.
