A gynecologist may be able to determine if a woman has had a recent miscarriage based on a physical examination, medical history, and possibly some diagnostic tests. However, detecting a miscarriage that occurred in the more distant past can be more challenging. No physical signs may indicate a previous miscarriage, especially if it occurred early in pregnancy. The most reliable way for a healthcare provider to know about past miscarriages is through a patient's self-reported medical history and previous medical records, if available.