The spontaneous loss of pregnancy during the first 20 weeks after conception is called a miscarriage or spontaneous abortion (SAB). There is nothing a woman can do to prevent a miscarriage, but there are some things she can do that may increase the risk of experiencing such a traumatic event. Women who use drugs, smoke, drink excessive amounts of caffeine, are malnourished or are exposed to radiation or other toxins are at a greater risk of miscarriage, explains the American Pregnancy Association. Understanding the early warning signs of a miscarriage can help to calm a woman's fears and help her understand what she is experiencing.
Pain
Pain is one of the early potential signs of a miscarriage. Abdominal cramping, worse than normal menstrual pain, mild-to-severe lower-back pain and contractions are all painful warning signs of a miscarriage, explains the American Pregnancy Association. It is not uncommon for women to experience mild-to-moderate cramping during the first two to four weeks of the pregnancy. These cramps are not associated with a miscarriage but instead are part of implantation, the event where the fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. This can cause some cramping that lasts for a few hours or a few days.
Bleeding
Along with the cramping, a woman may experience bleeding or spotting. Light spotting that is bright red or brown in color can also be a sign of implantation. Miscarriage bleeding may be difficult to discern from normal implantation spotting. The passage of tissues can be a more obvious sign of the loss of pregnancy. Any tissues or clots that are passed from the vagina should be reported to a doctor. The University of Maryland Medical Center points out that a gush of clear or pink vaginal fluid can indicate the passage of tissues from the uterus that were part of the pregnancy.
Contractions
Contractions may feel somewhat painful, or they may feel like pressure in the abdomen and lower pelvic area. When a miscarriage is occurring, the contractions will be very painful and will take place every five to 20 minutes.
Other Signs
When a miscarriage is beginning, the mother may notice a sudden decrease in signs of pregnancy. This includes a decrease in breast sensitivity and morning sickness suggests the University of Maryland Medical Center. A woman may also report dizziness, light-headedness or faintness during the miscarriage.
