Introduction
If you’re pregnant and experiencing symptoms such as vaginal bleeding, cramping, and passing of tissue, then you may be concerned about a potential miscarriage. A miscarriage is a pregnancy loss that occurs before the 20th week, and it can be an emotional and overwhelming experience. As such, it’s important to confirm a miscarriage as soon as possible, allowing you to seek the necessary medical attention and support. In this article, we’ll explore the signs and symptoms to look for and the different DIY tests you can do at home to confirm a miscarriage.
Signs and Symptoms to Look for to Confirm a Miscarriage at Home
Here are some of the most common signs and symptoms to look for when trying to confirm a miscarriage:
Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding or Spotting
If you’re experiencing bleeding that’s different from your regular period, then you may be experiencing a miscarriage. The bleeding can be light or heavy and may include the passing of tissue.
Cramping and Abdominal Pain
It’s not uncommon for women to experience cramping and abdominal pain during early pregnancy. However, if these symptoms become severe or accompanied by bleeding, they could be signaling a potential miscarriage.
Pregnancy Symptoms Subside
If you were experiencing common pregnancy symptoms such as nausea and breast tenderness and they suddenly disappear, then this could be an indicator of a miscarriage.
Passing of Tissue from the Vagina
If you pass tissue from your vagina that resembles large blood clots or particularly thick discharge, it could be a sign of a miscarriage.
Emotionally Distressed
It’s not uncommon to have an emotional response if you suspect a miscarriage. You may feel overwhelmed, anxious, or sad.
DIY Miscarriage Testing: What You Can Do at Home to Confirm a Miscarriage
If you notice any of the symptoms above, there are several DIY tests you can do at home to confirm a miscarriage. Here are some of the most common tests:
Pregnancy Test
Use a pregnancy test to determine whether your hormone levels have dropped to a non-pregnant level. If the test comes back negative, it’s an indicator that you’ve likely experienced a miscarriage.
Pelvic Exam
A pelvic exam may reveal if there’s still fetal tissue or blood clots present in your uterus, indicating that the miscarriage hasn’t completed yet.
Ultrasound or Sonogram
Ultrasound or sonogram can confirm fetal heartbeat or lack thereof. An ultrasound can also reveal if there are any complications and how advanced the miscarriage has progressed.
HCG Blood Test
A blood test can confirm HCG levels – also known as the pregnancy hormone – and revealing its decrease meaning a possible miscarriage. In some cases, a follow-up blood test may be necessary to monitor HCG hormone levels.
Using Pregnancy Apps
There are a few mobile apps that can help monitor your pregnancy from the beginning and support you during early pregnancy loss. One such app is called “Spot On,” which tracks your period and ovulation cycle and charts any unusual changes.
Different Ways to Confirm a Miscarriage at Home Without Medical Testing
If seeking medical attention is not an option, the following approaches can be taken to confirm a miscarriage:
Observing Your Vaginal Discharge
Take note of any discharge from your vagina. If the discharge is accompanied by mild cramping, it could be an indication of a failed pregnancy.
Monitoring Your Pregnancy Physical Symptoms
If the symptoms of early pregnancy, such as nausea or tender breasts, disappear, it could indicate a loss of pregnancy.
Using a Doppler Fetal Monitor
A Doppler fetal monitor is a handheld device that emits sound waves to listen to fetal heartbeat. If there’s no heartbeat, it may indicate a miscarriage has occurred.
Tracking Your Pregnancy Timeline
If you’re unsure about your pregnancy timeline, it could be useful to trace when you expected to reach milestones, such as hearing a heartbeat or movement. If these milestones have passed, it could be a sign of a failed pregnancy.
How to Monitor Your Body and Confirm a Miscarriage at Home
If you suspect a miscarriage, it’s essential to track the changes occurring in your body. Here are a few things you can do:
Keep a Record of the Changes in Your Body
Record any important developments in your pregnancy, including bleeding, cramping, and changes in symptoms.
Track the Frequency of Bleeding and Pain
Record the frequency, severity, and duration of any bleeding or pain. This information may be useful for your doctor to diagnose the cause of the miscarriage.
Take Note of Any Other Symptoms Such as Fever or Chills
If you’re experiencing fever, chills, or other symptoms not related to pregnancy, make a note of them. These symptoms may signal an infection requiring medical attention.
Natural Remedies to Confirm a Miscarriage at Home
Although seeking medical care is the best course of action after a miscarriage, there are some natural remedies that may help support your body during this time:
Herbal Teas
Herbal teas, such as ginger tea or chamomile tea, may help reduce inflammation, relieve nausea, and promote relaxation.
Natural Supplements
Consulting with your doctor and trying natural supplements like homeopathic remedies or minerals such as iron or magnesium can provide possible relief from symptoms such as mood swings or anemia.
Relaxation Techniques
Practicing deep breathing, meditation, or soothing exercises like yoga can help reduce the stress hormone cortisol, which can lead to a more comfortable and faster recovery.
Diet
Eating a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can help support physical recovery and mental well-being.
Steps to Take After Confirming a Miscarriage at Home: When to Reach out to an Expert
After confirming a miscarriage at home, it’s essential to take the necessary steps to take care of your physical and emotional well-being, including:
Managing Your Emotional Well-Being
A miscarriage can be an emotional and distressing experience, and taking care of your mental health is as important as caring for your physical health. You can seek out support groups, reach out to mutual friends or family, or find comfort in self-care activities.
Seeking Medical Attention
If you confirm a miscarriage, it’s still essential to seek medical attention. Complications can occur such as heavy bleeding or infection which increases chances of damaging your reproductive system.
Exploring Options After a Miscarriage
There are a few options you can explore after a miscarriage such as genetic counseling to test for chromosomal abnormalities and discussing next steps with your doctor. It’s also important to give yourself time to grieve if necessary
Planning for Future Pregnancies
If you want to plan for future pregnancies, there are a few things you can do to support a healthy pregnancy such as seeking medical advice, aborting unhealthy habits, and being aware of your limits and weaknesses.
Conclusion
Confirming a miscarriage at home can be a difficult and emotional experience, but understanding the signs to look for and the tests you can do can help you seek the necessary medical attention quickly. If you think you might be experiencing a miscarriage, it’s important to confirm it as soon as possible, take care of yourself emotionally and physically and reach out to medical experts with the right experience.