Miscarriage at five weeks: what it may look and feel like

At this stage, the pregnancy is very small and may not be visible clearly on an initial scan. Bleeding can range from light spotting to a flow like a period, and cramps may be mild or strong. Passing small clots or tissue can occur, but these signs can overlap with other early-pregnancy problems. A pregnancy outside the womb, called an ectopic pregnancy, needs prompt assessment because it can cause serious internal bleeding.

A clinician may review your symptoms, examine you, check pregnancy hormone levels over time, and arrange a transvaginal ultrasound. The scan can help show whether a pregnancy is in the womb and whether development matches the expected stage. One early scan may be inconclusive, so repeat testing can be recommended.

Contact an early-pregnancy or gynaecology service for advice, especially if you have pain or bleeding after a positive pregnancy test. Note when bleeding began, how quickly pads become wet, where pain is located, and whether you feel faint. Use pads rather than tampons while bleeding so changes are easier to monitor, and rest according to how you feel.

If a miscarriage is confirmed, options may include waiting for the tissue to pass, medicine to help the process, or a procedure to remove pregnancy tissue. Your clinician can explain the likely timing, discomfort, follow-up, and what choice fits your health and preferences. You can read about [Transvaginal Ultrasound](/treatments/diagnostics-and-imaging/transvaginal-ultrasound/) and [Medical Management of Miscarriage](/treatments/medical-gynaecology/medical-management-of-miscarriage/).

Seek emergency help for severe or worsening pain, pain mainly on one side, shoulder-tip pain, fainting, marked dizziness, unusual weakness, or heavy bleeding that rapidly soaks pads. Fever, chills, or feeling acutely unwell also needs prompt medical assessment. These symptoms can signal significant blood loss, infection, or an ectopic pregnancy and should not be judged by bleeding alone.

Ask whether the pregnancy location has been confirmed, whether repeat hormone tests or ultrasound are needed, and which symptoms should trigger emergency care. You can also ask about pain relief, your blood group, follow-up after treatment, and when it is physically and emotionally comfortable to try for pregnancy again.