Stomach swollen after miscarriage: what to know

The uterus contracts after a pregnancy ends, and cramping or a lower-abdominal heavy feeling can accompany that process. Bloating may also follow reduced activity, constipation, pain medicines or changes in eating. These explanations do not rule out a problem: retained pregnancy tissue, infection or bleeding can cause pain, tenderness, fever or ongoing bleeding. A clinician may assess your symptoms and, when needed, use a transvaginal ultrasound to check the uterus.

Note when the swelling began, whether it is increasing, where pain is located, and how much you are bleeding. Rest, drink fluids and try gentle movement if you feel able. Follow the discharge instructions you received, and use only medicines that your clinician has said are suitable. Do not place anything in the vagina until you have been given personal guidance. If tissue remains, treatment may involve observation, medicines or a procedure; your clinician can explain options such as Medical Management of Miscarriage or Surgical Management of Miscarriage.

Contact a clinician promptly for increasing abdominal swelling, worsening or one-sided pain, fever, chills, unpleasant-smelling discharge, continued heavy bleeding, dizziness or marked weakness. Seek emergency help if you faint, have severe pain, become short of breath or are soaking through pads rapidly. Do not wait for the swelling to settle if you feel acutely unwell.

Ask whether your symptoms fit expected recovery, whether an examination or ultrasound is needed, how to recognise infection or retained tissue, which pain relief is appropriate, and when sex, exercise and trying for pregnancy can be resumed.