Miscarriage options: what to know

A clinician may first confirm what is happening with an examination, pregnancy testing and a Transvaginal Ultrasound. Sometimes a repeat assessment is needed before a diagnosis is certain. If pregnancy tissue remains in the uterus, care may involve waiting for the body to pass it, using medicine to help the process, or a procedure to remove it.

Waiting avoids medicines or an operation, but the timing can be unpredictable and follow-up is needed. Medical management can cause cramping and bleeding as the uterus empties. Surgical management is a procedure and may be considered when bleeding is heavy, infection is suspected, or other approaches are unsuitable or unsuccessful.

Arrange medical assessment rather than relying on symptoms alone. Note when bleeding began, how it is changing, whether you have pain, fever, dizziness or unusual discharge, and any medicines you take. Use pads so you can observe bleeding, rest when needed, and follow the clinician’s advice about pain relief and follow-up.

Ask what the scan shows, whether waiting is reasonable, how quickly each option may work, and how completion will be checked. You can read about Medical Management of Miscarriage and Surgical Management of Miscarriage before making a decision.

Seek urgent medical help for very heavy bleeding, severe or worsening abdominal pain, fainting, marked weakness, shoulder-tip pain, fever, chills, or feeling seriously unwell. These symptoms can signal bleeding, infection or a pregnancy complication that needs prompt assessment.

Ask: Has the miscarriage been confirmed? What are the benefits and drawbacks of each option for me? What bleeding and pain should I expect? When should I return for a check? Which symptoms mean I should attend emergency care?