Early stage miscarriage, also known as a spontaneous abortion, is the loss of a fetus before the 20th week of pregnancy. It occurs in approximately 10-20% of recognized pregnancies, making it a relatively common occurrence.
In the early stages of miscarriage, a woman may experience mild to severe cramping, which is similar to menstrual cramps. She may also have a light or heavy vaginal bleeding, which may be accompanied by blood clots or tissue. In some cases, the bleeding may be light and stop after a few days. If the bleeding continues, however, it could be a sign of a miscarriage.
In some cases, a woman may experience only the symptoms of a miscarriage, without any bleeding. These symptoms can include nausea, fatigue, a decrease in fetal movement, and breast tenderness. If any of these symptoms are present, it is important to seek medical attention.
A doctor can diagnose a miscarriage with an ultrasound, which will show if the pregnancy is progressing normally or if there are signs of a miscarriage. A blood test can also be done to measure the levels of the pregnancy hormone hCG. If the hCG levels are dropping, it could mean that the pregnancy is not viable.
If a miscarriage is confirmed, a woman may require a procedure called a dilation and curettage (D&C) to remove the remaining tissue from the uterus. This procedure can be done in a doctor's office or in a hospital. In some cases, the body may expel the tissue on its own.
In the aftermath of a miscarriage, it is important to seek emotional support and to talk to a doctor about any concerns. It is also important to remember that most women go on to have healthy pregnancies after a miscarriage, and that this is often a normal part of the reproductive journey.