How can I confirm I had a miscarriage?

Confirming a miscarriage primarily involves medical assessment, with an ultrasound scan being the most common method to determine the status of a pregnancy.

Medical Confirmation of Miscarriage

If you suspect you have had a miscarriage, it is crucial to seek medical attention from a healthcare provider. They will perform various tests and examinations to confirm the miscarriage, rule out other conditions, and ensure your well-being.

Ultrasound Scan

An ultrasound scan is the definitive tool used by medical professionals to confirm a miscarriage. During the scan, a technician or doctor uses sound waves to create images of your uterus and pelvis. They will look for key indicators such as:

• Absence of a fetal heartbeat when one should be present based on gestational age.
• An empty gestational sac where a fetus should be developing.
• An irregular or abnormally sized gestational sac.
• Retention of pregnancy tissue within the uterus.

Early Pregnancy Assessment Unit (EPAU)

For pregnancies under 12 weeks, an Early Pregnancy Assessment Unit (EPAU) is often the specialized setting where these scans and assessments are conducted. These units are designed to manage complications in early pregnancy.

• Referral Process: Your general practitioner (GP) or the hospital will typically make the referral and arrange an appointment for you at an EPAU or for an ultrasound scan. This ensures you receive timely and appropriate care.

Blood Tests

Alongside an ultrasound, blood tests, particularly those measuring human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels, may be used. In a healthy pregnancy, hCG levels rise steadily. If you are experiencing a miscarriage, your hCG levels may be declining or not rising as expected when measured over several days.

Physical Examination

A doctor may also conduct a physical examination to check your cervix for dilation or to see if any tissue has passed. While a physical exam alone cannot confirm a miscarriage, it provides additional information to your healthcare provider.

Why Is Medical Confirmation Important?

Medical confirmation of a miscarriage is vital for several reasons:

• Accurate Diagnosis: It helps differentiate a miscarriage from other conditions, such as an ectopic pregnancy (where the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus), which requires immediate medical intervention.
• Management of Tissue: It ensures that all pregnancy tissue has been expelled from the uterus, preventing infection or excessive bleeding. If tissue remains, medical or surgical management may be necessary.
• Emotional Support: Receiving a clear diagnosis can help you process the experience and access appropriate emotional support and resources.
• Future Planning: It provides important information for future pregnancy planning and allows your healthcare provider to discuss any potential underlying causes if applicable.

What to Do If You Suspect a Miscarriage

If you are experiencing symptoms such as vaginal bleeding, abdominal cramping, or the sudden loss of pregnancy symptoms, it is important to:

1. Contact Your Healthcare Provider Immediately: Reach out to your GP, obstetrician, or local hospital's emergency department or early pregnancy unit.
2. Note Your Symptoms: Keep track of the type and amount of bleeding, the intensity and frequency of cramping, and any tissue you may pass.
3. Avoid Using Tampons or Having Intercourse: This can help prevent infection while you await medical assessment.

For a summary of diagnostic tools, refer to the table below:

Seeking timely medical evaluation is the best way to confirm a miscarriage and ensure you receive the care you need.