Common reasons for a missed miscarriage

Other possible contributors include structural differences in the womb, certain hormonal or medical conditions, infection and problems with placental development. Frequently, no single reason can be confirmed. Ordinary movement, work, sex, exercise or a moment of stress is not generally considered the cause.

In a missed miscarriage, the pregnancy has stopped developing but the body has not yet passed the pregnancy tissue. Bleeding and cramps may be absent, and pregnancy symptoms can persist or fade. Ultrasound is used to assess development; depending on timing and findings, another scan may be arranged before the diagnosis is confirmed.

The result can feel especially unexpected because there may have been no warning. Grief, numbness, anger and guilt are understandable responses, but the diagnosis does not by itself indicate that either parent caused the loss.

Your care team can explain waiting for the tissue to pass naturally, using medicine, or having a procedure. The suitable choice depends on your clinical condition, scan findings, preferences and available support. Ask what bleeding and pain to expect, which pain relief is appropriate, where to call for help, and whether follow-up testing is planned. Give yourself space to seek emotional support as well as physical care.

Obtain urgent help for very heavy bleeding, severe or worsening abdominal pain, fainting, substantial dizziness, difficulty breathing, fever, chills or foul-smelling discharge. These features can indicate significant blood loss or infection. Urgent review is also appropriate if pain remains uncontrolled despite the medication your care team recommended.

Ask how the diagnosis was confirmed, whether another scan is needed, what each management option involves, and how you will know treatment is complete. You may also want to discuss recovery, when to resume sex or exercise, emotional-support services and whether your health history suggests any further evaluation.