Miscarriage: Symptoms, Signs, and When to Seek Help - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Miscarriage, or spontaneous abortion, is a common occurrence in early pregnancy, affecting approximately 10-20% of known pregnancies. Understanding the symptoms, signs, and when to seek medical help is crucial for anyone who suspects they may have experienced a miscarriage.

In your case, it seems you experienced some unusual bleeding after a sexual encounter, which you initially thought was a menstrual period. However, the bleeding was lighter than usual and lasted about seven days. Following this, you had a positive pregnancy test, indicating that you were indeed pregnant. The subsequent symptoms you described, including cramping similar to menstrual pain and heavy bleeding, are often associated with miscarriage.

Common symptoms of miscarriage include:
1. Vaginal Bleeding: This can range from light spotting to heavy bleeding. In some cases, it may be accompanied by clots or tissue passing from the vagina.

2. Abdominal Pain or Cramping: Many women experience cramping that can feel similar to menstrual cramps.

3. Loss of Pregnancy Symptoms: If you had symptoms of pregnancy, such as breast tenderness or nausea, a sudden decrease in these symptoms can be a sign of miscarriage.

Given your timeline, the heavy bleeding you experienced after the positive pregnancy test, along with the cramping, suggests that you may have had a miscarriage. The fact that you later tested negative for pregnancy further supports this possibility.
It is important to note that while some bleeding in early pregnancy can be normal, significant bleeding accompanied by pain is a cause for concern. If you are experiencing ongoing symptoms such as persistent pelvic pain or discomfort, it is advisable to seek medical attention.
Here are some recommendations for when to seek help:
- Heavy Bleeding: If you are soaking through one or more pads an hour for several hours, you should seek immediate medical attention.

- Severe Pain: If you experience severe abdominal pain that is not relieved by over-the-counter pain medications, it is important to consult a healthcare provider.

- Persistent Symptoms: If you continue to have symptoms such as pelvic pain or unusual discharge after the bleeding has stopped, you should see a doctor for further evaluation.

In your case, since you mentioned ongoing discomfort in your uterus, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional. They can perform an ultrasound or other tests to assess your condition and ensure that there are no complications, such as retained tissue, which can lead to infection or other issues.

In summary, while it is possible that you experienced a miscarriage based on the symptoms you've described, it is essential to follow up with a healthcare provider to confirm this and to address any ongoing symptoms. Early intervention can help manage any potential complications and provide you with the necessary support during this time.