One day you find out you’re pregnant! Some are truly shocked and a million thoughts run through their mind. Others feel such overwhelming joy that they can’t think about anything else except celebrating!
However, as the days go by, the excitement and nervousness begin to subside and reality sets in. Then comes the fear of having a miscarriage. After all, almost everyone knows that a miscarriage in the early months is considered normal, and at any sign we get worried. But honestly, what are the symptoms of miscarriage? When should you be concerned?
Miscarriage is considered a common event during pregnancies up to the 20th week. There are many reasons for this, such as poor fetal development, in which case the body naturally expels the fetus.
Causes of miscarriage
There are many cases in which a woman has a miscarriage even before knowing she’s pregnant, or simply never knows it happened. In 80% of miscarriages, the pregnancy ends before the first 13 weeks, with the risk decreasing each week that passes.
Even though it’s considered something common, it is not easy to face or experience. Disappointment, sadness, and a sense of loss are inevitable. Most of the time, it’s not possible to specify the reason and cause of the miscarriage. There are several reasons why a miscarriage can occur in the early weeks.
A molar pregnancy or an anembryonic pregnancy, where the embryo doesn’t even begin its development, as well as uterine infections or abnormalities in the placenta, can be causes of miscarriage. Another very common cause is cervical insufficiency1, where the cervix cannot support the development of the fetus and fails to remain closed until the end.
Main symptoms of miscarriage
Perhaps the most obvious symptoms of miscarriage are severe cramping accompanied by vaginal bleeding with clots. However, bleeding doesn’t always occur to announce it. In some cases, if the woman is not yet aware she’s pregnant when the miscarriage occurs, she may think it’s a late period. If you experience these symptoms, you should go to a hospital or see your doctor immediately to have an ultrasound. The fetal heartbeat and the mother’s health will be assessed during this scan.
Other symptoms that may be noticed are the absence of morning sickness and breast tenderness. If these symptoms disappear or suddenly decrease, something may be happening. If there is bleeding, don’t panic, but go to a hospital.
Bleeding is also common in the first months2, and doesn’t always mean a miscarriage has occurred. Still, it’s a good idea to investigate the cause for reassurance and to start taking precautions to resolve or stabilize the problem. Many women continue their pregnancy normally despite bleeding during the first trimester.
How to confirm a miscarriage
The first test carried out will be a pelvic examination to analyze the cervix and check for dilation. The second will be an ultrasound, to assess the baby’s heartbeat as well as the presence or absence of movement. The baby’s development will also be evaluated.
The third test usually done is a blood test to measure the amount of HCG hormone in the blood. A drop in these levels can indicate a possible miscarriage, or whether the placental tissue has already been completely expelled.
The last test, if deemed necessary or requested, is an anatomical pathology exam, which can be performed in the event of miscarriage. The tissue expelled is collected and sent to the lab for analysis, where the cause of the event is investigated. This can help rule out problems that could affect future pregnancies.
See also: Miscarriage – Causes and My Experience
_ Key Information Box:
- Almost everyone knows a miscarriage is considered normal in the first months, and we get worried at any sign.
- It is not something easy to face or experience, as disappointment, sadness, and the feeling of loss are inevitable.
- Another very common cause is cervical insufficiency, where the cervix cannot support the development of the fetus and fails to remain closed.
- Perhaps the most obvious symptom of miscarriage is severe cramping accompanied by bleeding.
- Bleeding is also common in the early months and does not always mean a miscarriage has already happened, but it is advisable to find out the cause for peace of mind.
