How do you know if you’re having a miscarriage? We hope you don’t experience this, but it’s important to be prepared.
Medically reviewed by Holly Almond, RN, BSN.
What is a miscarriage?
A miscarriage is the loss of a pregnancy before 20 weeks, according to Mayo Clinic. Most miscarriages occur in the first trimester of pregnancy (first 13 weeks).
What are the symptoms of a miscarriage?
These are some symptoms that can indicate a miscarriage:
- Bleeding from the vagina (spotting or heavy bleeding)
- Pain/cramping in the lower back or pelvic area
- Fluid or tissue passing from the vagina
- Fever
- Quick heartbeat
- Feeling of not being pregnant anymore
Spotting (or light bleeding)
Spotting doesn’t necessarily mean you’re experiencing a miscarriage. Spotting occurs in many healthy pregnancies in the first trimester due to implantation bleeding and other reasons. If you’re experiencing any bleeding, however, especially if it’s heavy or accompanied by cramping, you should contact your healthcare provider.
Call your healthcare provider if you’re experiencing any other symptoms that concern you.
If you don’t have a provider, don’t hesitate to go to the emergency department.
If you’re pregnant and you’ve had a past miscarriage, you’re not alone. Our registered nurses are happy to discuss your pregnancy and medical history in a free, confidential appointment. We offer free pregnancy tests and ultrasounds, which will confirm your pregnancy and its viability.
Adrienne Bergmeier
Adrienne Bergmeier is a Communications Coordinator at The Pregnancy Network.