MISCARRIAGE

Miscarriages are common; about one in every 5 or 6 pregnancies stop growing. Once they stop, it can be a few weeks until they are detected. Sometimes, there may be symptoms of bleeding or sometimes the diagnosis is made from the results of blood work, or having an ultrasound. Often there is nothing that can be done to prevent the miscarriage. A miscarriage is not a woman’s fault.

It can be really upsetting to find out that a pregnancy has stopped growing, especially if there is no warning or physical signs. You may need a supportive friend, counsellor or health care provider. It may be reassuring to know that having a miscarriage or two are common during a woman’s reproductive life, but more than that are unusual.

The management of miscarriage can happen naturally without any treatment but it can take a long time. Miscarriages are usually more painful than a period and can go on for 2-3 weeks or more. You will likely be reviewing options with your physician, midwife or nurse practitioner. If you need or want options to manage the miscarriage, such as medications or a uterine aspiration (D&C), then you will likely be referred to the Vancouver Island Women’s Clinic www.vanislandwomensclinic.ca. The staff, nurses and physicians there have specialized training in miscarriage management.

If you think or know you are miscarrying, talk to your health care provider. If you are bleeding heavily and feel light headed or dizzy, go to the Emergency Department of Victoria General Hospital for urgent care.