Health & Pregnancy

Understanding Miscarriage -- Symptoms

What Are the Symptoms of Miscarriage?

Typically, the symptoms of a miscarriage worsen as the miscarriage progresses. Spotting turns into heavier bleeding; cramping starts and becomes stronger.

Among pregnant women, any of the following symptoms may indicate miscarriage:

• Vaginal bleeding or spotting, with or without cramps; this bleeding may occur very early in your pregnancy -- even before you miss your menstrual period and know that you are pregnant -- or it may occur later, after you know you are pregnant. This is the most common symptom.
• Mild-to-severe lower back pain or abdominal pain or cramping, either constant or intermittent
• A blood-clot-like material, or a gush of clear or pink fluid that passes from the vagina
• Nausea, decrease in signs of pregnancy, or loss of breast sensitivity
• Dizziness

Call Your Doctor About a Miscarriage If:

• You are pregnant and have vaginal bleeding, with or without cramps
• You are pregnant and notice clot-like material passing from your vagina; collect this material, and bring it to your doctor.