A miscarriage is the loss of a pregnancy. Experiencing miscarriage can bring a wide range of emotions grief, sadness, confusion, or sometimes even relief and every response is valid. Whether your pregnancy was planned or unexpected, this guide explains what miscarriage means, outlines the medical and emotional options, and offers practical steps for looking after your health and well-being during this time.
What is a miscarriage?
A miscarriage happens when a pregnancy stops growing on its own. There are different ways this can happen:
- Complete miscarriage: The pregnancy tissue passes naturally, and no further treatment is needed.
- Incomplete miscarriage: Some tissue has passed, but some remains inside the uterus.
- Missed miscarriage: The pregnancy has stopped growing, but hasn’t passed and remains in the uterus.
- Threatened miscarriage: There’s bleeding, but the pregnancy is still developing (and may continue normally).
How common is miscarriage?
Miscarriage is far more common than many people realise – up to 1 in 5 confirmed pregnancies end this way, most often in the first 12 weeks. Some happen so early that the person may not even know they were pregnant.
Why does it happen?
Most miscarriages occur because of chromosomal abnormalities, meaning the pregnancy wasn’t developing as it should. It’s nature’s way of ending a pregnancy that couldn’t continue healthily.
While miscarriage can feel like a personal loss, it’s important to know:
💙 It’s not your fault – you didn’t cause this.
💙 It doesn’t mean you can’t have a healthy pregnancy in the future.
💙 Age, smoking, and certain health conditions can increase the risk, but often, there’s no clear cause.
How is miscarriage diagnosed?
You might notice:
- Cramping or abdominal pain
- Vaginal bleeding
- Loss of pregnancy symptoms (like nausea or breast tenderness)
But sometimes, there are no obvious signs – which is why an ultrasound or blood test is often needed to confirm what’s happening.
Your treatment options
If the pregnancy has stopped growing, you have three choices:
1. Letting it happen naturally (Expectant Management)
- Pros: No medication or surgery.
- Cons: Can take days or weeks; may need follow-up
2. Medication to help pass the tissue (Medical Management)
- Pros: More predictable timing.
- Cons: Can cause strong cramps and bleeding
3. A minor procedure to remove the tissue (Surgical Management)
- Pros: Quick, effective, and often done under sedation.
- Cons: Small surgical risks.
Caring for yourself after miscarriage
Emotionally
- Your feelings matter. Grief, sadness, anger, even relief are all normal.
- Talk to someone. A counsellor, GP, or support group can help. We’re here to help too, call 1300 003 707.
Physically
- Light bleeding may continue for 1–2 weeks.
- Contact your doctor is bleeding is very heavy (soaking a pad every hour) and/or you have severe pain or fever.
Future Pregnancies
- If you want to try again: Many doctors suggest waiting until after your next period.
- If you don’t: Reliable contraception is important, you can get pregnant again before your next period.
If an ultrasound is needed, we will help you arrange one as conveniently as possible. Your safety is our top concern.
You’re not alone
Miscarriage can feel isolating, but you don’t have to go through it alone. If you need medical help, we’re here to help. 1300 003 707 Our compassionate team is just a call away. ❤️
Content reviewed by Dr Philip Goldstone, Medical Director of MSI Australia.