Pain After a Missed Miscarriage

Cramping can occur as the uterus contracts and passes pregnancy tissue. It may also follow medicines used to manage the miscarriage or a procedure. Emotional distress can accompany physical recovery, and needing support does not mean you are coping badly.

Pain that worsens instead of easing, returns after improvement, or occurs with fever, unpleasant-smelling discharge, or heavy bleeding can indicate retained tissue or infection. A clinician may need to examine you and decide whether further treatment is required.

Use the pain relief recommended by your clinician, rest, drink fluids, and use pads so bleeding can be monitored. Avoid inserting anything into the vagina until you have been advised that it is safe. Keep any follow-up appointment, even if bleeding has reduced.

Ask what changes are expected after your chosen approach. Surgical Management of Miscarriage removes tissue with a procedure, while Medical Management of Miscarriage uses medicine to help the uterus empty. Follow-up may include a pregnancy test, examination, or scan.

Seek urgent medical care for severe or one-sided pain, fainting, dizziness, heavy bleeding, fever, chills, repeated vomiting, or foul-smelling discharge. Call promptly if you feel increasingly unwell or if pain is not controlled by the plan given to you.

Ask how long cramping and bleeding may last, how to tell whether the miscarriage is complete, and which pain medicines are suitable. Ask who to contact outside clinic hours and when you can try to conceive again if that is your concern.