Signs of miscarriage often include vaginal bleeding or spotting (light to heavy, like or heavier than a period), severe cramping or pain in the abdomen, lower back, or pelvis, and passage of tissue or fluid from the vagina. Other indicators may involve a sudden loss of pregnancy symptoms such as nausea or breast tenderness, or in later stages, reduced fetal movement. These symptoms can vary by trimester and individual, and some spotting occurs in healthy pregnancies without miscarriage.

Confirmation Methods

The only definitive way to confirm a miscarriage is through medical evaluation, typically starting with an ultrasound to check for a fetal heartbeat and development. Blood tests measuring hCG hormone levels (often serial tests every 48 hours) help track if pregnancy is progressing. A physical exam may assess bleeding, pain, or expelled tissue.

When to Seek Help

Contact a healthcare provider immediately for any bleeding, cramping, or concerning symptoms during pregnancy, as prompt care can clarify if it's a miscarriage or another issue. Missed miscarriages (no symptoms but fetal loss) are often detected at routine scans. Emergency care is needed for heavy bleeding (soaking a pad hourly for hours), severe pain, fever, or dizziness.