Miscarriage — signs, what to do next, and where to find support

Seeing blood or having pain during early pregnancy can terrify you. Miscarriage is sadly common: many pregnancies end in early loss, often for reasons out of anyone’s control. This page gives clear, practical steps you can take right away, what to expect from medical care, and how to get emotional support.

Signs to watch for and immediate steps

Common signs include spotting or bleeding, cramps or lower back pain, and passing tissue. Light spotting doesn’t always mean a miscarriage, but heavy bleeding—soaking a pad in an hour—severe pain, fainting, or fever need urgent care. If you notice any of these, contact your healthcare provider or go to the emergency room.

When you call your clinic, they’ll likely ask about your symptoms, how far along the pregnancy was, and your medical history. Expect a pelvic exam, a pregnancy blood test (hCG) and sometimes a scan. These tests help confirm whether the pregnancy is continuing, failing, or if there’s another issue like an ectopic pregnancy.

Medical options and what to expect

If a miscarriage is confirmed, there are typically three approaches: expectant management (waiting for the body to pass tissue naturally), medical treatment with a medication that helps pass the pregnancy, and surgical management (a procedure like D&C). Your choice depends on how you feel, how far along the pregnancy was, and your doctor’s advice. Each option has pros and cons—ask about risks, recovery time, and follow-up tests.

After a miscarriage, your provider may monitor hCG levels until they return to zero and check for infection. If you had heavy bleeding, a high fever, or severe pain, treatment and follow-up are especially important.

What causes miscarriage? The most common reason is a random chromosomal problem in the embryo. Other factors can include uncontrolled chronic conditions (like diabetes or thyroid disease), advanced maternal age, smoking, certain infections, or uterine issues. Often no clear cause is found.

How soon can you try again? Many providers say it’s safe to try after one normal period, but follow your doctor’s advice—especially if tests or treatment are needed first.

Grief after a miscarriage is real. You might feel sadness, anger, relief, or numbness. Talk to your partner, a trusted friend, or a counsellor. Support groups—online or local—connect you with people who’ve been through the same thing. If you’re in Africa, ask your clinic about local counselling services or search for national pregnancy loss support groups. International resources like NHS, WHO, or professional medical bodies also offer reliable guidance.

Simple steps that may lower risk for future pregnancies: avoid smoking and alcohol, keep chronic conditions under control, take folic acid before conception, and maintain a healthy weight. These aren’t guarantees, but they help overall health.

If you need immediate help, contact your local emergency services or your healthcare provider. If you're looking for emotional support, ask your clinic for counselling referrals or search for a local support group. You don’t have to go through this alone.