For most people, the cause of their miscarriage is unknown. This is often due to the lack of testing for losses pre-24 weeks’ gestation. However, even when testing is done, many are left with ‘inconclusive’ results. This can add to the experience, leading to self-blame and the inability to process the loss. While there are some risk factors and known causes, most occur due to chromosomal and/or structural abnormalities, and therefore the majority have no preventative measures. Other reasons include - endometrial problems, blood clotting disorders and infection.

The majority of miscarriages cannot be prevented, but there are some factors which increase the risk:

• Maternal and paternal age (notably over the age of 40). However, it is important that you don’t blame yourself – it isn’t your fault when you meet a partner, when you’re financially ready to try for a child etc.

• Ethnicity - Black women are 43% more likely to experience miscarriage than white women. We don’t know whether this is due to biological reasons, racial bias in healthcare or both due to a lack of research.

• Smoking, maternal weight and alcohol use.

In the UK, it is estimated that one in five pregnancies end in loss, which is often extremely surprising because we don’t hear much about it due to the taboo.

Early miscarriage (before 12 weeks) is the most common.
Late miscarriage affects about 1–2 in every 100 pregnancies.
Ectopic pregnancy occurs in approximately 1 in 80 pregnancies.

Most miscarriages are isolated incidents, and there's a good possibility that a person will have a successful pregnancy after a miscarriage.

However, for some miscarriage can be a cause of childlessness. Please see our ‘different pathway’ page for further support with childlessness due to miscarriage.

Recurrent miscarriage (two or three losses, sometimes consecutive - depending on NHS Trust) affects about 1% of couples.

If you’ve experienced repeated loss, you should be referred to a specialist clinic for further investigations.

Sometimes no cause is found, however, it may be that you are diagnosed with:

• A blood clotting disorder

• Thyroid problems

• Thyroid antibodies

• Uterine problems

• Genetic cause

Vaginal bleeding is the main sign. Vaginal bleeding - or spotting can be normal during pregnancy, and this can cause confusion regarding when to be concerned. It is always best to seek medical advice for bleeding during pregnancy.
Lower abdominal pain and cramping is another common symptom. The pain can resemble ‘period cramping’ which often becomes more intense. If you experience excruciating, sharp pain and/or feel faint or collapse - this may indicate an ectopic pregnancy and requires urgent medical attention.

We know that sadly, healthcare experiences can be difficult and even exacerbate the symptoms of miscarriage. The language used and the lack of information provided can make the experience more traumatic.

Physical symptoms vary significantly. Some people experience relatively mild effects, while others suffer severe pain, blood loss, anaemia, infection, or even haemorrhage. Some may require an ambulance; others may find the symptoms manageable.
Some are told to manage the physical symptoms at home; however, others require medical care. Miscarriage management depends on gestation, symptoms and sometimes preference:

• Expectant management: allowing miscarriage to occur naturally.

• Medical management: using medication to induce or speed up the process.

• Surgical management: surgery removes the pregnancy tissue from the uterus.

Unfortunately, some people receive little guidance and are left to manage alone. This can compound the trauma.

If you believe you may be miscarrying, contact your GP, midwife, or NHS 111. You may be referred to an Early Pregnancy Unit (EPU). In some cases, especially at later stages, you may be directed to a maternity ward.
If urgent (e.g. heavy bleeding, severe pain, or symptoms of ectopic pregnancy), go to Accident & Emergency (A&E) immediately.

Note: Not all hospitals have an EPU, and some are closed outside of weekday hours. Access may vary depending on where you live.

In the UK, the loss of a pregnancy before 24 weeks’ gestation is called a miscarriage. There are various types of loss which fall under this umbrella:

• Miscarriage (early, late and missed/delayed)

• Chemical pregnancy

• Ectopic pregnancy

• Molar pregnancy

• Anembryonic pregnancy (blighted ovum)

• Termination for medical reasons (TFMR)
  

Sadly, some people experience recurrent miscarriage (multiple pregnancy losses).

Losses after 24 weeks are defined as stillbirths.