What are the signs of miscarriage?

If you have any of the following, seek emergency care immediately:

• Heavy bleeding over a short time (soaking pads quickly)
• Severe abdominal pain or cramps
• Fever or shaking chills (may indicate infection)
• Fainting, dizziness, or extreme weakness
• Sudden and severe symptoms during pregnancy

These signs may need urgent evaluation. Do not wait.

Some commonly reported signs that may be associated with miscarriage include:

• Vaginal bleeding or spotting
• Cramps or pain in the lower abdomen
• Tissue, clots, or fluid coming from the vagina
• Uncertainty or variability of symptoms

These symptoms do not always mean miscarriage; other conditions can cause similar signs.

Places to seek care include:

• Emergency Medicine (especially if you have emergency signs)
• Obstetrics and Gynaecology (gynecology/obstetrics)
• Family Medicine or primary care (for initial assessment)

Your clinician will evaluate you and may refer you for further tests or to another specialist.

To help the clinician assess you, tell them:

• When symptoms started and how long they have lasted
• The amount and frequency of bleeding (for example, how quickly pads become soaked)
• Any additional symptoms such as fever, lightheadedness, or severe pain
• Prior pregnancies or miscarriage history and any medicines you are taking

These details help your clinician make a faster and safer assessment.

Evaluation usually begins with a medical history and physical examination. Your clinician may order imaging or laboratory tests if needed to determine the cause and severity.

• Pelvic examination
• Imaging (for example, ultrasound) may be needed
• Blood tests or other laboratory tests if indicated

Which tests are needed will depend on the individual assessment.