Dealing With Miscarriage

Bleeding and cramping can occur in early pregnancy for several reasons, so an assessment may include symptoms, examination and a transvaginal ultrasound. The clinician may need follow-up to confirm that the womb is empty or that the pregnancy has ended.

Miscarriage can bring sadness, anger, numbness, guilt or relief, sometimes in changing combinations. In most cases, everyday actions did not cause it. Physical recovery and emotional recovery may follow different timelines.

Your clinician may discuss waiting for the tissue to pass, medicines to help the process or a procedure to remove remaining tissue. Ask what bleeding, pain relief, follow-up and contraception advice apply to your situation.

Rest when needed, use sanitary pads while bleeding so you can observe changes, and accept practical help. Speak with someone you trust or a counsellor if grief, anxiety or low mood is interfering with sleep, eating or daily activities.

Seek urgent care for heavy bleeding, severe or one-sided abdominal pain, fainting, fever, chills, foul-smelling discharge or feeling very unwell. Emergency assessment is needed for collapse or severe dizziness.

Ask whether follow-up imaging is needed, which management options fit your symptoms, how to recognise infection, and when you can seek advice about another pregnancy.