What to Expect From a Miscarriage

A miscarriage is when a pregnancy ends on its own before 20 weeks.  It’s common and happens in about 1 in 4 pregnancies.

Most miscarriages are caused by problems with the pregnancy's development.  The most common reasons are:

• Genetic issues (chromosomal abnormalities)
• Errors when the cells of the embryo divide, which causes the pregnancy to stop growing

Miscarriages are not caused by sex, exercise, spicy foods, or mild falls.

Common signs include:

• Vaginal bleeding
  
• Cramping
  
• Passing tissue or clots

The miscarriage process can last from a few hours to a few days or weeks.

How much bleeding is normal?

It can be heavier than your normal period.  You may have bleeding that stops then starts again, or it may come and go for several weeks.  If you've soaked through 2 pads an hour for 2 hours in a row, or if you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or faint, call your doctor or go to the emergency room and let your doctor know on the way.

How long will I have other pregnancy symptoms?

It takes time for hormone levels to return to normal, so you may have symptoms (breast tenderness, nausea, fatigue, etc.) for a few days to a couple of weeks after the miscarriage.

When will I get my period again?

Usually within weeks, but it can take several months.

When can I have sex again?

As soon as you feel comfortable.

When can I try to get pregnant again?

As soon as you feel ready, though some providers suggest waiting until after your first period.

It's normal to feel a range of emotions, from relief to great sadness and grief to anger or guilt.

If you're feeling sad:

• Acknowledge your feelings without judgment.  Allow yourself to feel and express those emotions.
• Share your feelings with a trusted friend or family member.  It can help to talk about your experience and emotions.
  
• Consider seeing a therapist or counselor who specializes in grief and loss and can provide support and coping strategies.
  
• Join a support group.  Connecting with others who've gone through similar experiences can help you feel comforted and understood.
  
• Practice self-care, whether it’s resting, eating well, or doing things that bring you joy.

Other resources:

• throughtheheart.org
• emptycradle.org/support-meetings
• postpartum.net/get-help/psi-online-support-meetings
• all-options.org/find-support/talkline
• nationalshare.org

You can also call or text the Postpartum Support International HelpLine at 800-944-4773.

For medical questions, reach out to your provider or go to mahotline.org

Call your doctor if you have any of the following:

• Severe pain
  
• Very heavy bleeding (soaking through 2 pads an hour for 2 hours)
  
• Fever
  
• Lightheadedness
  
• Fainting

If you're struggling emotionally, consider therapy or reach out to one of the support resources above.

If you want your pregnancy to pass more quickly, talk to your doctor.  They can recommend a procedure or medication to help.

In some cases, a miscarriage doesn't complete, meaning some pregnancy tissue remains.

Signs of an incomplete miscarriage are:

• Bleeding that lasts more than a couple weeks
  
• Cramping or pain that doesn't go away

If that happens, you may need medication or a procedure to remove the rest of the tissue.