A silent miscarriage, also known as a missed miscarriage, can be very difficult to detect because it often doesn't present with the typical symptoms of a miscarriage.
Symptoms of a Silent Miscarriage
- Lack of pregnancy symptoms: You may experience a decrease or complete disappearance of pregnancy symptoms like nausea, breast tenderness, and fatigue.
- Absence of vaginal bleeding: Unlike many miscarriages, there is usually no vaginal bleeding in a silent miscarriage.
- No cramping or pain: You may not experience any cramping or pelvic pain.
- Uterine growth stops: During a routine ultrasound, your doctor may notice that the fetus is not growing as expected.
- Decreased hCG levels: Blood tests may show a decline in the levels of the pregnancy hormone, hCG.
Detecting a Silent Miscarriage
Silent miscarriages are often detected during a routine prenatal checkup or ultrasound. Your doctor will likely perform additional tests to confirm the diagnosis.
Importance of Early Detection
While silent miscarriages can be emotionally challenging, early detection allows for proper medical care and support.
