MISCARRIAGE TREATMENT OPTIONS

Treatment options for miscarriage depend on several factors, including the stage of pregnancy, the individual's health, and any underlying conditions. Here are some common treatment options:

• Expectant Management: In cases of early miscarriage (typically before 10 weeks of pregnancy), expectant management involves allowing the body to expel the pregnancy tissue naturally without medical intervention. This process may involve monitoring for signs of complications and providing supportive care.

  • This means passing the tissue at home over a period of 1-2 weeks with spotting lasting 4-6 weeks.

• Medication: Medications such as misoprostol may be prescribed to help the uterus expel the pregnancy tissue. Misoprostol is a prostaglandin medication that can induce contractions and promote the passage of tissue. It is often used in cases of incomplete miscarriage or missed miscarriage.

  • To read more about medicated miscarriage, often called medicated abortions, click here.

  • The process will generally last 1-2 days with heavy bleeding and cramping. Spotting may occur for another couple weeks as well.

• Surgical Management: If expectant management or medication is not successful or if there are concerns about complications, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove the remaining pregnancy tissue. The two primary surgical procedures for miscarriage are:

  • Dilation and Curettage (D&C): A procedure in which the cervix is dilated, and the uterine lining is scraped or suctioned out. To read more about the D&C process, click here.

  • Dilation and Evacuation (D&E): A procedure similar to D&C but performed later in pregnancy when more advanced equipment is needed to remove the tissue.

  • The D&C is generally the “fastest” procedure with the least amount of bleeding though spotting may still occur after.

• Emotional Support: Miscarriage can be emotionally distressing, and couples experiencing miscarriage may benefit from emotional support and counseling to cope with grief and loss. To read more about miscarriage support, click here.

Sources:

• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). (2021). Early Pregnancy Loss. 

• Mayo Clinic. (2021). Miscarriage. 

• American Pregnancy Association. (2021). Miscarriage: Signs, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention. 

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