Diagnosing Miscarriage

You will be asked about your symptoms, the length of your pregnancy, and when you first noticed a change in your condition. The doctor will perform physical and pelvic exams.

Prior to miscarriage, tests may include:

• Ultrasound testing -to assess the health of the fetus or detect an ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy in which development occurs outside the uterus)
• Blood test-to check the exact amount of the hormone (called human chorionic gonadotropin or hCG)important to sustain an early pregnancy

After miscarriage, tests may include:

• Tissue examination-to examine tissue that has been expelled and check for chromosome defects
• Blood tests-to check for a chromosomal error in the man or the woman or to check hormone and antibody levels
• Imaging tests- x-rays or an ultrasound to identify a problem with your uterus
• Endometrial biopsy -reveals the suitability of your uterine lining to accept and sustain an embryo
• Hysteroscopy-to look inside the uterus. The hysteroscope, a thin, lighted fiberoptic instrument, is inserted in your vagina and passed through your cervix. The doctor can check for problems with the shape or size of your uterus, as well as examine and sample the endometrial lining. During the procedure, the doctor also may be able to correct a uterine problem.