A missed miscarriage, sometimes referred to as a silent miscarriage, occurs when a pregnancy has stopped developing but the body has not yet recognised the loss. This means there may be no immediate bleeding or pain, and pregnancy symptoms can sometimes continue for a period of time.
Being told you have experienced a missed miscarriage can come as a shock. At The Women’s Health Hub, we understand how emotionally difficult this news can be. Our role is to provide clear information, gentle guidance, and supportive medical care so you can make decisions that feel right for you. Medical management of a missed miscarriage uses prescribed medication to help the uterus empty naturally. This option avoids surgery and is commonly used for early miscarriages, particularly those under 13 weeks of pregnancy.
Mifepristone is used to block progesterone and prepare the uterus. It is a single tablet. Four Misoprostol tablets are then taken 36 hours later- this will induce strong uterine cramps and expel the pregnancy tissue.
Medication can be taken from the comfort of your home. You will have access to our support line if you have concerns.
Follow-up appointments, including blood tests and occasionally ultrasounds, are often scheduled to confirm the miscarriage is complete.
Some people experience no obvious signs of missed miscarriage, which is why the term silent miscarriage is often used. Others may notice subtle changes such as reduced pregnancy symptoms, light spotting, or abdominal discomfort.
Early pregnancy loss is relatively common and is rarely caused by anything you did or did not do. We are here to answer questions, explain findings, and support you without judgment.
Side effects are most commonly linked to misoprostol and can vary from person to person. Common side effects may include:
These symptoms are expected as part of the process and usually settle within a few days. In a small number of cases, around 2 per cent, the medication may not fully complete the miscarriage. If this happens, the medication can sometimes be repeated, or a surgical procedure may be recommended. We will talk through all options with you if further treatment is needed.
It is most often identified during an ultrasound scan when development has stopped, even though there may be no physical symptoms. Some people are diagnosed during a routine appointment and are surprised, as their body has not yet shown clear signs that the pregnancy has ended.
Medication can be used to help the uterus empty naturally. This involves taking one tablet first to prepare the body, followed by additional tablets around 36 hours later to trigger cramping and bleeding. This approach avoids anaesthesia and is commonly used in early pregnancy.
Yes. In most cases, the medication can be taken in the comfort and privacy of your own home. You will be given clear instructions and guidance on what to expect, along with access to a support line if you have questions or concerns at any point.
Follow up is an important part of care. Blood tests are usually arranged to confirm the process is complete, and sometimes an ultrasound is recommended. Our team stays in touch and supports you until everything is medically resolved.
Cramping and bleeding are expected, along with possible symptoms such as nausea, headache, fatigue, chills, or diarrhoea. These usually settle within a few days. In a small number of cases, further treatment may be needed, and all options will be discussed with you if that happens.
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