Miscarriage Warning Signs

Overview

Miscarriage is the loss of a pregnancy during the first 23 weeks. It is sometimes called early pregnancy loss. Most miscarriages happen in the first 12 weeks.

Yes, miscarriage is very common. It is estimated that about 1 in 5 known pregnancies end in miscarriage, but the true number is likely higher because many occur before a person realises they are pregnant.

Miscarriage can affect anyone who becomes pregnant. It happens in people of all ages, but the risk increases slightly with age, especially after 35.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Vaginal bleeding – this can be light spotting or heavier like a period.
• Cramping pain in the lower tummy – similar to period pain.
• Loss of pregnancy symptoms, such as breast tenderness or morning sickness.

Symptoms in children

• Miscarriage can only occur during pregnancy, so it does not affect children unless they are pregnant (which is extremely rare and would require urgent medical attention).

Symptoms in older adults

• Miscarriage is a condition of pregnancy. People over 50 rarely become pregnant, but if they do, they would experience the same warning signs. This is not a typical concern for older adults.

Causes

Main causes

• In most cases, miscarriage happens because the pregnancy is not developing normally, often due to chromosome problems in the embryo. This is random and not caused by anything the parents did.
• Other causes can include health conditions in the pregnant person (like uncontrolled diabetes, thyroid problems, or infections), problems with the shape of the womb, or a weakened cervix.

Risk factors

• Age over 35 (the risk rises gradually with age).
• Having had two or more previous miscarriages.
• Certain long-term health conditions, like poorly controlled diabetes or thyroid disease.
• Smoking, drinking alcohol, or using recreational drugs during pregnancy.
• Being very overweight or underweight.
• Some infections, such as rubella or sexually transmitted infections, if not treated.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Any vaginal bleeding during pregnancy, even if it is light spotting.
• Any new abdominal pain or cramping.
• If you notice fluid leaking from the vagina.
• If you have a fever or feel unwell with pregnancy symptoms.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have had bleeding that has now stopped and you feel well, still contact your GP or midwife for advice. They may still want to check you.
• To discuss any worries or risk factors before trying to conceive again.

Diagnosis

A doctor or midwife will ask about your symptoms and medical history, then may perform a physical examination. You may be referred to an early pregnancy unit (EPU) for further tests.

Tests that may be done

• A pregnancy test to check the hormone levels.
• An ultrasound scan – usually a small probe is gently placed inside the vagina to get a clear picture of the pregnancy. This is safe and not painful.
• Blood tests to measure the pregnancy hormone (hCG) over a couple of days to see if levels are rising as expected.

What to expect at your appointment

You may be asked to wait for results, which can take time. If the ultrasound shows a problem or it is too early to see a heartbeat, you might need a repeat scan in a week or two. Healthcare staff will explain everything and support you through the process.

Treatment

There are three main approaches to managing a miscarriage. The choice depends on how far along the pregnancy is, your symptoms, and your preference after discussing with a doctor.

Self-care at home

• If you are bleeding, use sanitary pads rather than tampons to reduce the risk of infection.
• Rest as much as you feel you need. Take time off work if you are tired or in pain.
• Use a hot water bottle or over-the-counter pain relief like paracetamol for cramps – ask your doctor which dose is safe for you.
• Stay hydrated and eat light, nourishing food. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise until bleeding stops.

Medical treatments

Sometimes, medicine is given to help your body pass the pregnancy tissue. This can be taken orally or inserted into the vagina. It works within a few hours to a couple of days. You may experience cramping and heavier bleeding than a period. You can usually manage this at home, but you should have pain relief and someone with you for support.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is an option if the miscarriage is incomplete (some tissue stays in the womb), if you have heavy bleeding, or if you prefer to have it managed quickly under anaesthetic. The procedure is called surgical management of miscarriage (SMM) or sometimes a dilation and curettage (D&C). It is a short procedure done in hospital under general or local anaesthetic, and most people go home the same day. Your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits with you.

Living with this condition

After a miscarriage, you will have bleeding and cramps similar to a heavy period for a week or more. This gradually lightens. Emotionally, recovery can take longer. It’s important to be kind to yourself and allow time to grieve.

Lifestyle tips

• Avoid intercourse and using tampons until the bleeding has fully stopped to prevent infection.
• Take time off work if you need it – many employers offer compassionate leave.
• Lean on friends and family. Talk about your feelings when you are ready.

Diet and exercise

Continue eating a balanced diet. Gentle walking can help with stress and recovery, but avoid intense exercise until your doctor says it’s safe. Stay well hydrated.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

A miscarriage can be very distressing. It is normal to feel sadness, anger, guilt, or numbness. Some people develop depression or anxiety. If feelings of grief overwhelm you or last for many weeks, speak to your healthcare provider. There is support available – you do not have to cope alone. If you have thoughts of harming yourself, please contact a crisis service or call your local emergency number immediately.

Prevention

Most miscarriages cannot be prevented because they are caused by random chromosome issues. However, looking after your health can help reduce risks: take folic acid before and during pregnancy, avoid smoking, alcohol, and drugs, manage long-term conditions, and maintain a healthy weight. Regular antenatal care is important.

Complications

If left untreated

• If some pregnancy tissue remains in the womb (incomplete miscarriage), it can lead to heavy bleeding or infection. This needs medical treatment.
• An untreated miscarriage that becomes infected (septic miscarriage) can cause fever, pain, and in rare cases, severe infection that spreads to the blood. This is a serious condition requiring urgent hospital care.

Long-term outlook

Having one miscarriage, or even more than one, does not mean you won’t have a baby in the future. Most people go on to have a healthy pregnancy after a miscarriage. If you have recurrent miscarriages (three or more in a row), there are specialist clinics that can investigate and offer support. With the right care, many people eventually have a successful pregnancy.

Find support

International organisations

• Tommy's (UK with international resources) ↗
• The Miscarriage Association (UK) ↗
• International Stillbirth Alliance ↗

Local organisations

• Sands (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Charity) – UK ↗ · UK
• March of Dimes – US ↗ · United States

Helplines

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