What should you know about threatened miscarriage?

The term is used when bleeding occurs during early pregnancy and the cervix may remain closed, with no confirmed loss at that point. Some pregnancies continue, while others progress to miscarriage. Bleeding can be light or heavy and may occur with cramps; its presence alone cannot predict the outcome.

Assessment may include a pregnancy history, examination, blood tests, and ultrasound. A transvaginal ultrasound can help assess the pregnancy and uterus. If the findings are not yet clear, repeat assessment may be needed. Nothing you did caused this situation, and emotional distress is understandable.

Contact an early-pregnancy or maternity service for advice, especially if bleeding is new or increasing. Use pads to monitor flow, rest if you feel unwell, and record pain, clots, dizziness, and changes in bleeding. Avoid inserting anything into the vagina until your clinician gives specific advice. Do not start medicines or supplements for the bleeding without checking first.

Get emergency help for heavy bleeding, severe or one-sided pain, shoulder-tip pain, fainting, marked dizziness, fever, or collapse. These symptoms can signal a complication requiring immediate treatment. Seek prompt review for persistent bleeding, increasing cramps, or tissue passage, even if you otherwise feel well.

Ask what the scan and examination show, whether blood tests or a repeat scan are needed, and which symptoms mean you should return urgently. If pregnancy loss is confirmed, ask about medical management, surgical management, pain relief, and follow-up.