The causes of miscarriage are varied. It is estimated that 15 to 20 percent of all known pregnancies end in miscarriage, 80 percent of which occur during the first 12 weeks of gestation. Some early miscarriages result from maternal hormonal or immunological factors, and others result from genetic anomalies present at conception. Late miscarriages, those that occur between 12 and 20 weeks, are typically due to maternal factors, such as infection or premature dilation of the cervix. Whatever the cause, there are many warning signs about which expectant mothers can educate themselves to help them seek medical assistance as early as possible.
Bleeding
Bleeding is often the first sign of trouble a woman may experience prior to miscarriage; bleeding at any point during pregnancy is a sign of trouble. In early pregnancy, bleeding accompanied by cramping, sometimes severe, is a telltale sign of impending miscarriage. Typically, the further along the pregnancy is, the more severe the cramping and bleeding may be.
Cramping
Cramping may occur with or without bleeding. Some cramps are a normal part of pregnancy changes that a woman may experience. Generally speaking, if cramping is worrisome or you need to utilize controlled breathing during cramps, call your physician immediately.
Other General Symptoms
Backache, fever, uncontrolled nausea and weakness can all indicate early miscarriage. The cause for confusion is that most of these symptoms are also signs of pregnancy that many women experience. Fever and chills after a miscarriage can be signs of infection. Continuing medical care following a miscarriage is vital to promote recovery and protect future fertility.
Diagnosis of Miscarriage
Often a transvaginal or abdominal ultrasound is used to confirm miscarriage. "Spontaneous abortion" is the term for embryonic tissue that has passed naturally from the mother's womb. A "missed miscarriage" refers to an embryo that has died but remains in the uterus with the cervix closed. This condition may last weeks before naturally resolving, but more frequently the physician will perform a "D and C," a surgical procedure, under general anesthesia, to completely expel the pregnancy and tissues from the uterus. Regardless of the cause of the miscarriage, which is often never known, or how the miscarriage is resolved, emotional support for the mother is vital.
