Resources > Miscarriage
|
A miscarriage refers to any pregnancy that is not viable (the fetus cannot survive) or in which the fetus is born before the 20th week of pregnancy. Miscarriage occurs in at least 15-20% of all recognized pregnancies and usually takes place before the 13th week of pregnancy.
More information about miscarriage and early pregnancy loss can be found at the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. |
Common Characteristics Of Miscarriage
Early pregnancy loss is common and happens in about 10% of known pregnancies. About one half of cases of early pregnancy loss are caused by a random event in which the embryo receives an abnormal number of chromosomes. Bleeding and cramping are the most common symptoms of early pregnancy loss. A small amount of bleeding and cramping in early pregnancy is relatively common. Bleeding often stops on its own, and the pregnancy continues normally. Bleeding and cramping also can be signs of other pregnancy problems, such as ectopic pregnancy. If you have any of these signs or symptoms, contact your obstetrician-gynecologist (ob-gyn) or other member of your health care team.
