Miscarriage is best understood as a loss of pregnancy before the 20th week of gestation. While statistically, the occurrence of miscarriage isn’t high (10-20% of pregnancies may end in miscarriages), we believe that the currently available data underestimates real numbers as most women are not even aware when a miscarriage occurs and may dismiss it as period. According to a Demographic and Population Studies conducted by the Malaysian Family Repository, most miscarriages occur amongst Indian women, followed by Malay and Chinese women, and is also most common amongst women that are 30 years and older. Despite the prevalence of miscarriages, there isn’t much information or open conversations regarding miscarriages and ways to cope with one. In today’s article, we will breakdown the signs of miscarriage and ways to cope with a miscarriage.
Miscarriage, period or implantation bleeding?
Firstly let’s clarify ways in which to differentiate all three.
Signs Of Miscarriage
The first signs of a miscarriage often take the form of spotting or bleeding. This is likely to be followed by cramps in the abdominal or lower back area. Other common signs can include fluids or tissue that may occasionally pass from the vagina.
“But How Is This Different Than Period?”
Miscarriages come with more painful cramps than the usual ones you may have dealt with during your period. Unlike a regular period, cramps worsen over time as the miscarriage continues. In a typical menstruation cycle, cramps tend to be intense on the first day and reduce in intensity.
Nausea is a major sign of pregnancy and if nausea stops suddenly after bleeding, this is an indicator that a miscarriage might have taken place.
A miscarriage also causes heavier bleeding that lasts longer than your usual period.
A difference in blood texture could also be a sign. If more tissue, blood clots, and heavier bleeding occur, this may also indicate that you’re going through a miscarriage.
“What Is Implantation Bleeding Then?”
Implantation bleeding is light spotting that may occur when an embryo attaches itself to the uterus lining. Is to be noted that not all women experience implantation bleeding.
| Characteristics | Implantation bleeding | Miscarriage |
| Blood color | Bright red | Light red/pink |
| Blood flow | Spotting | Heavy flow |
| Cramps | No intense cramps or pain should occur. Intense pain is abnormal and uncommon during implantation bleeding. | Intense and painful cramps are to be expected. Pain tends to occur at the lower abdominal area and back. |
An estimated 20% of women who face miscarriages tend to struggle with depression or anxiety. In the Asian community, miscarriage is often a topic that is hushed and goes unacknowledged. This denies a mother the ability to mourn and grief openly. Women that face miscarriages must have a good support system around them to brave through the loss.
Some mothers may feel indifferent about their miscarriages and that should not be frowned upon. Emotional experiences are subjective and unique and one should not feel forced to feel or act a certain way following a miscarriage.
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“Empower your parenting journey with Mama Net! Whether you’re just starting your journey into parenthood or are a seasoned pro, Download our app for free on the App Store and Google Playstore for access to certified content, interactive tools, and a community of supportive parents and mothers.”
