Missed miscarriage percentage: understanding the term

Online figures may combine different pregnancy stages, definitions and populations. That makes them unsuitable for predicting what will happen in a particular pregnancy. A missed miscarriage is diagnosed when an assessment shows that the pregnancy is no longer developing, while the body has not yet passed the tissue.

A positive pregnancy test, symptoms, or a change in symptoms cannot establish the diagnosis on its own. Ultrasound findings are interpreted alongside dates and, when needed, a repeat scan or other clinical assessment.

If you are worried about a number you have read, write down what it refers to and take it to your maternity or gynaecology team. Ask whether the figure applies to your pregnancy stage and what evidence is available from your scan. Once a missed miscarriage is confirmed, discuss waiting, medicine or a procedure, including expected bleeding and follow-up.

Get urgent help for heavy bleeding, severe pain, fainting, marked dizziness, fever, chills or a sudden deterioration. Do not wait for a percentage or an arranged appointment when these warning signs occur.

Ask what the scan shows, whether a repeat assessment is needed, which management choices are available, and which symptoms should prompt immediate care. You can also ask when follow-up will confirm completion.