Understanding Miscarriage -- Symptoms

Medically Reviewed by Nivin Todd, MD on April 29, 2023
1 min read

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.
  • Decrease in signs of pregnancy, such as loss of breast sensitivity or nausea.
  • You are pregnant and have vaginal bleeding, with or without cramps
  • You are pregnant and notice clot-like material passing from your vagina
  • You have severe cramping