Types of Miscarriage During Pregnancy: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Methods
Miscarriage (abortus) is defined as the termination of pregnancy before the 20th week and is one of the most common pregnancy complications.
Approximately 10–20% of all pregnancies end in miscarriage, and many women may experience an early miscarriage without even realizing they were pregnant.
Miscarriages are categorized into different types depending on their causes and how they occur.
This article will discuss the types of miscarriage during pregnancy, their causes, symptoms, and treatment methods.
1. Threatened Miscarriage (Abortus Imminens)
Definition
In this condition, miscarriage has not yet occurred, but there is a risk of it happening.
Symptoms
Light vaginal bleeding or spotting
Mild abdominal or lower back pain
Cervix remains closed
Treatment
Bed rest is recommended and heavy physical activity should be avoided.
Progesterone support may be given.
Sexual intercourse is not advised.
Pregnancy is closely monitored with ultrasound and blood tests.
Most women with threatened miscarriage can continue their pregnancy in a healthy way.
2. Inevitable Miscarriage (Abortus Inevitabilis)
Definition
The cervix has opened and continuation of pregnancy is not possible.
Symptoms
Heavy vaginal bleeding
Strong contractions and cramp-like pain
Open cervix
Treatment
Medical treatment or curettage may be required to complete the miscarriage.
If bleeding is severe, surgical intervention may be needed to fully clear the uterus.
3. Incomplete Miscarriage (Incomplete Abortus)
Definition
Part of the pregnancy tissue has been expelled, but some remains inside the uterus.
Symptoms
Heavy vaginal bleeding
Severe cramps
Presence of pregnancy tissue in the uterus
Treatment
Medication or curettage may be needed to completely empty the uterus.
Close monitoring for bleeding and infection is essential.
4. Complete Miscarriage (Complete Abortus)
Definition
All pregnancy tissue has been expelled from the uterus.
Symptoms
Bleeding and pain decrease significantly
Ultrasound shows an empty uterus
Treatment
Usually no further intervention is required.
Follow-up with a doctor is recommended to confirm the uterus is clear.
5. Missed Miscarriage (Missed Abortus)
Definition
The baby has died in the womb, but the body has not recognized it yet.
Symptoms
No bleeding or pain, but fetal heartbeat has stopped
Pregnancy symptoms disappear
Ultrasound shows halted fetal development
Treatment
Medical or surgical intervention (medication or curettage) is required.
Monitoring for infection risk is necessary.
6. Recurrent Miscarriage (Habitual Abortus)
Definition
Having three or more consecutive miscarriages.
Causes
Genetic issues (chromosomal abnormalities)
Uterine abnormalities (septum, adhesions)
Immune system disorders (Antiphospholipid syndrome)
Hormonal imbalances
Treatment
Genetic testing, uterine evaluation, and immune system tests are performed.
Treatment is tailored to the underlying cause.
7. Septic Miscarriage (Infected Abortus)
Definition
An infection develops during or after a miscarriage.
Symptoms
High fever
Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
Severe abdominal pain
Treatment
Immediate antibiotic treatment is required.
Medical intervention to clear the uterus and control infection.
Causes of Miscarriage
Genetic Factors
50–60% of miscarriages are due to genetic abnormalities.
Chromosomal defects can prevent healthy embryo development.
Hormonal Problems
Low progesterone levels can hinder pregnancy continuation.
Thyroid disorders (hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism) increase miscarriage risk.