Before we begin, we would just like to state that the information contained within this article may be upsetting and even triggering for some. While many find it helpful to read up on these things, this isn’t true of everyone. So don’t feel that you must continue reading if you are struggling.

When it comes to recognising the signs of a threatened miscarriage, the first thing to note is that in most cases you won’t know for sure if you are experiencing or have experienced a miscarriage until you've seen a doctor. While some of the following signs can indicate a miscarriage, they can also be normal and common pregnancy symptoms that won’t harm your baby. Similarly, it is estimated that bleeding occurs in as many as half of all pregnancies and that in most cases, the pregnancy continues as normal.

That being said, the following list outlines symptoms that could indicate a threatened miscarriage:

Vaginal bleeding and skin tissues passing from the vagina with or without pain. This is typically first noticed after wiping when using the bathroom. It’s generally recognised as a smear of pink, brown or red blood. The flow is generally lighter than a normal menstrual period but it can sometimes come out in a gush consisting of large clots. However, please note that bleeding is common during early pregnancy and more often than not the pregnancy continues safely. But if you experience any bleeding, make sure to contact your doctor without delay. The doctor will likely suggest an ultrasound, but don’t take this as a bad sign.

Lower abdominal pain and cramping or lower back pain. If a mother experiences lower abdominal pain or cramping above the vagina before or during bleeding, it’s very important that she see a doctor. Again, know that lower abdominal pain is common during early pregnancy and does not necessarily indicate a miscarriage. However, lower abdominal pain could also indicate that the pregnancy is ectopic, which could cause serious complications. So make sure to speak to a medical professional.

It is also the case with some women who are very sensitive to pregnancy symptoms (such as nausea, breast tenderness and fatigue) that their symptoms come to an abrupt stop or fade away quite quickly. While this is unusual and might indicate that a pregnancy is not continuing, some women won’t experience these symptoms in the first place. It's important to understand that a lessening of these symptoms doesn’t necessarily indicate a miscarriage. These symptoms usually pass after 14 weeks, or even sooner for some.

Many couples might be left wondering whether there is something that can be done to prevent the miscarriage. Unfortunately, in early pregnancy there is very little you can do. Later in the pregnancy, bed rest and certain drugs can be prescribed, but sadly they’re unlikely to do any good in the early stages. But remember that threatened miscarriages don’t always end a pregnancy. It is estimated that an episode of bleeding occurs in almost half of all pregnancies, most of which then continue as normal. However, should you notice any bleeding, see your doctor as soon as possible.

How will I recognise a threatened miscarriage?