What to expect from medical management of miscarriage for missed miscarriage

A missed miscarriage means a pregnancy has stopped developing but the body has not yet passed the pregnancy tissue. Medical management uses medicine to encourage the cervix to open and the uterus to contract. Your clinician will explain which medicine to use, how to take it, and what to do if bleeding does not begin or the process seems incomplete.

Cramping may become strong as the tissue passes, and bleeding may be heavier than a period with clots. Nausea, diarrhoea, chills or a short-lived temperature rise can also occur. Emotional responses vary; physical treatment and support for grief can be discussed separately.

Ask how to use pain relief and keep sanitary pads, fluids, comfortable clothing and a way to contact the care team nearby. If possible, have a trusted adult with you, especially when bleeding and cramps are strongest. Rest afterward and avoid tampons while bleeding. Attend the planned review, which may involve symptoms, a pregnancy test or an ultrasound to check whether tissue remains.

Seek urgent care for very heavy bleeding, faintness, severe or worsening pain, difficulty breathing, persistent fever, or foul-smelling discharge. Call promptly if you feel seriously unwell or cannot keep fluids down. These signs can point to significant bleeding or infection and need assessment.

Ask when to expect bleeding, which pain medicines are suitable, how you will know tissue has passed, and what happens if the treatment is incomplete. You can also ask about contraception, trying for pregnancy again and available emotional support.