How to Confirm a Miscarriage?
A miscarriage is sadly confirmed through a combination of methods, primarily focusing on physical examination and imaging.
Several tests help confirm a miscarriage. These include:
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Ultrasound Scan: This is usually the first test used. An ultrasound uses sound waves to create an image of the uterus, allowing healthcare professionals to visualize the fetus and check for a heartbeat. The absence of a fetal heartbeat or the presence of an empty gestational sac often confirms a miscarriage. [NHS, HSE.ie, PregnancyBirthBaby.org.au, Royal Women's Hospital, Mayo Clinic]
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Blood Tests: A blood test measures the levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a pregnancy hormone. Falling or very low hCG levels, in conjunction with other symptoms, can indicate a miscarriage. [Mayo Clinic, Yale Medicine]
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Pelvic Exam: A physical examination by a healthcare provider can assess the cervix for dilation (opening), which is a sign of miscarriage. [Mayo Clinic, WebMD]
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Tissue Tests (if applicable): If tissue is passed, it may be tested to determine the cause of the miscarriage. [Mayo Clinic]
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Chromosomal Tests (if applicable): In some cases, chromosomal testing of the fetal tissue may be recommended to understand the cause of the miscarriage. [Mayo Clinic]
Understanding the Process
The process usually involves:
- Reporting Symptoms: Share your symptoms (bleeding, pain, etc.) with your doctor or healthcare provider.
- Initial Assessment: Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and may perform a pelvic exam.
- Imaging and Bloodwork: Based on the initial assessment, an ultrasound and/or blood tests will be ordered.
- Diagnosis and Support: The results of the tests confirm the miscarriage and guide further medical care.
Types of Miscarriage and Confirmation
The type of miscarriage (complete, incomplete, missed, etc.) influences the diagnostic approach. A complete miscarriage, for example, is usually confirmed by an ultrasound showing an empty uterus after experiencing bleeding and passing fetal tissue. [Cleveland Clinic]
