Miscarriage without knowing you were pregnant

A late or unusually heavy period can sometimes reflect an early pregnancy loss, but other causes include a hormonal change, an ovarian problem, infection, or an ectopic pregnancy. A clinician may use a pregnancy test, blood testing and a Transvaginal Ultrasound to establish whether a pregnancy existed, where it was located, and whether tissue remains.

Arrange an assessment if bleeding is heavier or more painful than your usual period, if tissue has passed, or if a pregnancy is possible. Use pads while bleeding and note its pattern, pain location, fever, and any dizziness. Depending on the findings, care may involve observation, Medical Management of Miscarriage, or Surgical Management of Miscarriage. Emotional support is also appropriate, whether or not the pregnancy was known.

Seek emergency help for severe or one-sided pelvic pain, shoulder-tip pain, faintness, marked dizziness, very heavy bleeding, fever, chills, or sudden weakness. These symptoms can occur with serious bleeding, infection, or an ectopic pregnancy.

Ask whether a pregnancy test or scan is needed, whether the pregnancy was in the uterus, whether tissue remains, what follow-up is required, and what future-cycle or contraception advice applies to you.