If a miscarriage happens, it usually occurs during the first seven weeks of pregnancy, according to MedlinePlus. Many women who miscarry may not even know they were pregnant. The risk of miscarriage is highest during early pregnancy. Medically, however, an expectant mom could lose the baby as late as week 20 into the pregnancy. Learning the signs and symptoms to watch for can, in some cases, prevent miscarriage. However, even if a miscarriage could not be prevented, keep in mind that many women who miscarry eventually move on to deliver healthy children in future pregnancies.
Back or Abdominal Pain
Significant lower back or abdominal pain could indicate a miscarriage, according to MedlinePlus and the American Pregnancy Association (APA). If the pain is dull, sharp or cramping, it may be related to a miscarriage rather than ordinary pregnancy pains. Keep in mind that the pain associated with a miscarriage is usually worse than menstrual cramps. Learning this difference might help you avoid unnecessary panic over ordinary pregnancy-related back or abdominal pains.
Vaginal Bleeding
Though light vaginal bleeding sometimes occurs early in pregnancy, miscarriage-related bleeding is usually markedly different, according to MedlinePlus and the APA. Miscarriage-related bleeding usually consists of clot-like material that may include fetal tissue. White-pink mucus or brown bleeding might also indicate a miscarriage.
Contractions
Contractions usually don’t happen early in pregnancy, but if you notice “true” contractions that happen together closely, you may be having a miscarriage, according to the APA. After 20 weeks, if you experience true contractions when you’re not nearly full-term, you may experience premature labor that could lead to a stillbirth, according to MedlinePlus.
Decrease of Typical Pregnancy-Related Symptoms
A number of potential side effects are associated with pregnancy, such as weight gain, swollen and tender breasts, nausea, vomiting, bodily aches, frequent urination and food cravings, according to the APA. Some moms who have actually miscarried may notice a sudden absence of pregnancy-related symptoms.
Signs of Infection
Some women who miscarry also experience an infection, especially if not all the fetal tissue passed from their bodies, according to the Mayo Clinic. If you experience fever, chills or thick, foul-smelling vaginal discharge, you may have suffered a septic miscarriage. Prompt medical treatment is essential for any miscarriage to protect the mom’s life as well as future fertility.
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