Miscarriage at 7 weeks: what to know

Early pregnancy loss may involve vaginal bleeding, lower abdominal cramps, backache, or passage of clots and pregnancy tissue. Bleeding in early pregnancy does not by itself prove that a miscarriage has occurred. A pregnancy may be too early to assess clearly, or the bleeding may have another explanation.

A clinician may ask about your symptoms, examine you, and arrange a pregnancy test or blood test. A transvaginal ultrasound can help assess the pregnancy and whether tissue remains in the uterus. Results sometimes need follow-up rather than an immediate conclusion.

Contact a maternity or gynaecology service for advice, especially if you have a positive pregnancy test. Note when bleeding began, how it changes, the colour of blood, clots or tissue, and the location and severity of pain. Use pads so bleeding is easier to observe, and avoid putting anything in the vagina until a clinician advises you.

If a miscarriage is confirmed, options can include waiting for the body to pass the tissue, medicine to help the process, or a procedure to remove tissue. The suitable choice depends on your symptoms, examination, ultrasound findings and preferences. Read about Medical Management of Miscarriage or Surgical Management of Miscarriage when discussing options.

Seek urgent medical help for heavy or rapidly increasing bleeding, severe or one-sided abdominal pain, shoulder-tip pain, fainting, marked dizziness, fever, or feeling suddenly very unwell. These symptoms need prompt assessment because an ectopic pregnancy, significant blood loss, or infection must be considered.

Ask whether the pregnancy location and development have been confirmed, whether repeat testing is needed, what bleeding or pain should be expected, and which treatment option fits your situation. You can also ask how to manage pain, when to return for review, and where to get emotional support.