What is late miscarriage?

A late miscarriage happens when an unborn baby dies in the second trimester of pregnancy, up to 20 weeks. This is different from an early miscarriage, which happens in the first trimester of pregnancy, up to 14 weeks, and from a stillbirth, which is after 20 weeks.

Late miscarriage is not common, but it can be deeply distressing. Some people may notice bleeding, cramping and lower abdominal or back pain during a miscarriage, while others don’t have any symptoms and may only find out during a routine pregnancy check-up.

CHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS — Use the Symptom Checker and find out if you need to seek medical help.

What will happen if I have a late miscarriage?

If you have a late miscarriage, you will usually need to go through labour and birth. This can be very difficult emotionally. Your healthcare team will explain your choices and support you throughout.

Your doctor may recommend medicine to help start labour. In some cases, a surgical procedure may be recommended instead.

Being in a labour ward after a late miscarriage can be difficult. Let your care team know what you need — they may be able to offer a more private space or extra support.

After the birth, you will usually be offered the chance to see and hold your baby if you want to. Many parents find this helps them with grieving, but it is always your choice. You may also be offered the chance to:

• spend time with your baby with other family members
• take photos or create hand and footprints
• involve cultural or religious rituals that are important to you

Your doctor may recommend tests to understand the cause of miscarriage.

Recovery at home

Your body will need time to heal. After a miscarriage, you may bleed for up to 2 weeks. It is best to use sanitary pads rather than tampons to avoid infection.

Pregnancy symptoms, such as nausea and tender breasts, will go away. If you had a miscarriage close to 20 weeks of pregnancy, your breasts might produce some milk.

To support your recovery, you may need:

• pain relief such as paracetamol
• rest
• practical and emotional support from your partner, family or friends

Check with your doctor before taking any medicines.

Emotional impact of late miscarriage

A late miscarriage can be intensely emotional and lead to many different feelings such as:

• sadness
• guilt
• grief
• anger
• numbness

There is no right or wrong way to feel — whatever you are experiencing is valid, and support is available to help you through it.

Some people may develop depression or anxiety, and you can talk to your doctor if you notice these feelings.

You and your partner may react in different ways. This can sometimes affect your relationship. There are support services available to help you and your partner.

What causes a late miscarriage?

The cause of a late miscarriage can’t always be found, but may include:

• problems with the placenta
• genetic or chromosomal conditions in the baby
• infections during pregnancy
• problems with the uterus (womb) or cervix
• long-term health conditions such as diabetes or thyroid problems

When should I see my doctor?

If you have any bleeding during pregnancy or if you think you are having a miscarriage, speak with your doctor or midwife. They can advise you on what to do.

If you are pregnant and have very heavy bleeding or strong abdominal pain, go to your nearest hospital emergency department immediately.

It’s important to see your doctor after a miscarriage to check your recovery. You should see your doctor within 4 to 6 weeks.

FIND A HEALTH SERVICE — The Service Finder can help you find doctors, pharmacies, hospitals and other health services.

What are the complications of late miscarriage?

Miscarriage can lead to serious complications including:

• heavy bleeding (haemorrhage)
• infection
• leftover tissue in the uterus, which may need medicine or surgery
• death (rare)

Can late miscarriage be prevented?

In many cases, a late miscarriage can’t be prevented, and it isn’t caused by anything you have done.

Looking after your health before and during pregnancy can reduce some risks. This includes:

• attending regular antenatal appointments
• managing health conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disease or overweight
• avoiding smoking, vaping and drinking alcohol
• seeking early care if you notice bleeding or pain

When can I try again?

After a miscarriage, you may feel ready to try again quickly, or you may need more time. Both are normal.

If you feel ready, it’s safe to get pregnant right after a miscarriage. If you don’t feel ready, talk to your doctor about contraception.

If you have had 2 or more miscarriages, your doctor may suggest seeing a fertility specialist.

Who can I talk to for support?

Experiencing a pregnancy loss can be overwhelming and painful. It is important to know you don’t have to go through this alone, and support is available for you and your family. You may find it helpful to talk to:

• family and friends you trust
• your doctor or midwife — they can also refer you to mental health professionals
• support organisations such as Red Nose Pregnancy Loss Group or The Pink Elephants Network
• community support groups with others who have experienced pregnancy loss
• a counsellor, psychologist or psychiatrist

If you have cultural or spiritual beliefs about pregnancy loss that affect how you feel, you may want to talk to an elder or religious leader.

Resources and support

If you have experienced a miscarriage or pregnancy loss, there are many support services available to help you, your partner and your family. Find a service that is right for you.