Threatened Miscarriage
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 2, 2024.
What is a threatened miscarriage?
A threatened miscarriage occurs when you have vaginal bleeding within the first 20 weeks of pregnancy. It means that a miscarriage may happen. A threatened miscarriage may also be called a threatened abortion.
What causes bleeding or spotting during pregnancy?
The cause of your bleeding or spotting may not be known. The following are possible causes of vaginal bleeding during pregnancy:
- Polyps, fibroids, or cysts in the uterus
- Sexual intercourse
- Infection
- Where or how the placenta is attached to your uterus (womb)
- A problem with your fetus (unborn baby)
- Drug or alcohol use
- Ectopic pregnancy (the fetus is growing outside of the uterus)
What are the signs and symptoms of a threatened miscarriage?
- Vaginal spotting or bleeding
- Pain or cramping in your abdomen or lower back
How is a threatened miscarriage diagnosed?
Tell your healthcare provider when your bleeding started. You may need any of the following:
- Blood tests may show infection, check your level of pregnancy hormone, or give information about your overall health.
- A pelvic exam checks the size of your uterus. A pelvic exam also checks your cervix for dilation (opening).
- A pelvic ultrasound shows pictures of the fetus and finds his or her heartbeat. A pelvic ultrasound also looks at your reproductive organs and monitors the amount of bleeding.
How is a threatened miscarriage managed?
The following may help you manage your symptoms and decrease your risk for a miscarriage:
- Do not put anything in your vagina. Do not have sex, douche, or use tampons. These actions may increase your risk for infection and miscarriage.
- Rest as directed. Do not exercise or do strenuous activities. These activities may cause preterm labor or miscarriage. Ask your healthcare provider what activities are okay to do.
When should I seek immediate care?
- You feel weak or faint.
- Your pain or cramping in your abdomen or back gets worse.
- You have vaginal bleeding that soaks 1 or more pads in an hour.
- You pass material that looks like tissue or large clots.
When should I call my doctor?
- You have a fever.
- You have trouble urinating, burning when you urinate, or feel a need to urinate often.
- You have new or worsening vaginal bleeding.
- You have vaginal pain or itching, or vaginal discharge that is yellow, green, or foul-smelling.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
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Further information
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