Pregnancy missed miscarriage: what to know

Some people have no warning signs and may still feel pregnant. Others notice that pregnancy symptoms fade. An ultrasound, sometimes alongside blood tests, is used to check development and confirm what has happened. This is not caused by something you did, and feeling shocked, sad, numb or worried can all be understandable responses.

Your clinician may discuss waiting for the tissue to pass naturally, medicines that help the uterus empty, or a procedure. The choice can depend on your symptoms, examination, ultrasound findings and personal preferences. Read about [Medical Management of Miscarriage](/treatments/medical-gynaecology/medical-management-of-miscarriage/) and [Surgical Management of Miscarriage](/treatments/gynaecological-surgery/surgical-management-of-miscarriage/). Follow-up confirms that the pregnancy tissue has passed and checks your recovery.

Seek urgent medical help for heavy bleeding, severe or worsening abdominal pain, faintness, shoulder-tip pain, fever, chills or foul-smelling discharge. These symptoms can signal significant blood loss, infection or another pregnancy emergency. Contact your maternity team promptly if you are unsure whether bleeding or pain is within the expected range.

Ask what the scan showed, which management options are suitable, how pain and bleeding will be managed, 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.