Causes

• Miscarriage is the body's way of ending a pregnancy that isn't developing correctly. More than half are caused by chromosomal problems that occur as the fertilized egg begins to divide. Other common causes may be related to the mother's health, such as infection, chronic diseases like diabetes or high blood pressure, or problems with the internal structure of the uterus or cervix.
  
  

Common Symptoms

• Each woman experiences miscarriage differently, although common symptoms include: vaginal bleeding that can range from slight spotting to a heavy flow; lower abdominal pain or cramping on one side, both sides or in the middle; lower back, buttock and genital pain; and loss of pregnancy symptoms like nausea and breast tenderness.
  
  

Serious Symptoms

• More serious symptoms that may require immediate attention include dizziness or weakness; uncontrollable or severe nausea or vomiting; and frequent, burning or painful urination.
  
  

Warning

• In rare instances, miscarriage can cause a medical emergency. Call 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency room if you experience severe vaginal bleeding that causes you to soak through more than one pad an hour; pass something that looks like tissue or thick mucus; have a history of ectopic pregnancy; are extremely dizzy or pass out; or have a fever greater than 100.4 degress F.
  
  

Emotional Effects

• In the days, weeks and even months that follow a miscarriage, it's normal to feel guilty, sad, shocked, depressed, angry or have a sense of failure. However, prolonged depression---or depression that seems to worsen or interfere with daily activities---may require medical care.