First Aid & Emergencies

Miscarriage Treatment

1. Call the Doctor

Call the woman's doctor for potential signs of miscarriage:

• Abdominal pain
• Back pain
• Bleeding that progresses from light to heavy
• Cramps
• Fever
• Vomiting
• Weakness

The doctor will tell you whether to come to the office or seek emergency help.

2. Follow Up

The doctor will do a pelvic exam and ultrasound to confirm miscarriage. The next steps depend on the individual case:

• If miscarriage is complete and uterus is clear or if it is very early in the pregnancy, there is usually no further treatment.

• If some fetal or placental tissue remains in the uterus, the doctor will remove it with drugs or surgery.

• If it is later in the pregnancy and the fetus has died in the womb, the doctor may induce labor and delivery.

• If the pregnancy is healthy despite bleeding, the doctor will probably prescribe bed rest until the bleeding stops.

• Mild discomfort and spotting are common after miscarriage.

• Call the doctor immediately for signs of infection: heavy bleeding, fever, chills, or pain.