What should you know about MMC miscarriage?

Some people have no bleeding or pain and only learn about the loss during an ultrasound. A clinician may use a transvaginal ultrasound to check the pregnancy location and development. This diagnosis can be emotionally difficult, and it is not caused by something you did or failed to do.

The next step is usually a conversation about waiting for the tissue to pass, using medicine to help the process, or having a procedure to remove it. The suitable choice depends on your symptoms, examination, pregnancy details and preferences.

Ask when and how the diagnosis was confirmed, what bleeding and cramping to expect, and how follow-up will confirm that the uterus is empty. You may be offered expectant care, medical management or surgical management; each has different practical considerations.

Use sanitary pads while bleeding so you can observe it, and follow the clinician’s instructions about pain relief and review. Further information is available about Transvaginal Ultrasound, Medical Management of Miscarriage and Surgical Management of Miscarriage.

Seek urgent medical help for very heavy bleeding, severe or worsening abdominal pain, faintness, marked weakness, fever, or feeling acutely unwell. These symptoms can signal significant blood loss or infection and need prompt assessment.

Ask what confirmed the diagnosis, which management options are appropriate for you, when follow-up is needed, and whom to contact outside clinic hours. You can also ask about emotional support and when it is medically reasonable to try for another pregnancy.