Miscarriage Symptoms

A miscarriage is the loss of a pregnancy before 20 weeks and it is nature's way of ending a pregnancy that is not developing normally. The length of the pregnancy will effect the number and severity of miscarriage symptoms.

A miscarriage that takes place shortly after conception can occur as a slightly late, slightly heavy period. Symptoms can vary from person to person, but there are common ones that generally occur:

• Bleeding. This can range from brownish spotting to heavy bleeding. It is important to note that many women experience spotting or bleeding during pregnancy and about 50% of the time, the pregnancy progresses normally.
• Pain or cramping in the lower abdominal area. The pain could be on just one side, both sides, or in the middle. You may also experience pain in the genitals, lower back, thighs, or buttocks.
• You may notice that pregnancy symptoms like nausea and breast tenderness have subsided or lessoned. Be aware that some women do not notice any change in these symptoms, while others do.
• Some women say that didn't "feel right" just prior to their symptoms.

If you are pregnant and experiencing symptoms you should contact your health care provider. If any of the following symptoms occur you should go the Emergency Room immediately:

• Heavy bleeding
• Passing clots or something that looks like tissue (bring the tissue to the hospital in a clean container)
• A fever higher than 100.4 degrees F
• Dizziness or fainting
• A history of tubal (or ectopic) pregnancy
• Severe vomiting 
• Severe pain the abdomen or back

If you have any uncertainty about the need to contact your health care provider, call him or her immediately. 

Also see:     Miscarriage Causes          Miscarriage Myths          FAQs              Miscarriage Statistics     Miscarriage Support Products