Miscarriage

Overview

When a woman miscarries (spontaneous abortion), the foetus is born before it is able to survive independently. There are many causes. Cramps similar to labour contractions and bleeding during pregnancy can be warning signs of a miscarriage and should be immediately discussed with a doctor.

Symptoms

• Vaginal bleeding and cramps similar to labour contractions
• Discharge of amniotic fluid

Causes and treatment

Causes

• Abnormal development of foetus
• Hormonal disorders
• Advanced age of mother
• Abnormalities and disorders of the womb
• Mother suffers a high fever
• Kidney, cardiovascular or autoimmune diseases
• Blood-clotting disorder
• Alcohol, nicotine and other drugs
• Accident
• Blood group incompatibility of mother and baby
• Multiple pregnancy

Further treatment by your doctor / in hospital

Possible tests

• Ultrasound (sonography)
• CTG (recording of foetal heartbeat and uterine contractions)

Possible therapies

• Bed rest and medication
• Antibiotics (for bacteria)

What can I do myself?

• Take medication and rest in bed in accordance with the doctor's instructions

Prevention

• Don’t take strong laxatives for constipation
• Don’t smoke or drink alcohol during pregnancy
• Don't participate in high-risk sports

When to see a doctor?

• Every case of vaginal bleeding and abnormal discharge during pregnancy needs to be immediately examined by a doctor

Synonyms

Miscarriage, spontaneous abortion