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Warning-sign checks

Miscarriage: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Light bleeding is common and is not always an emergency, but it should be assessed, particularly if you also have pain.

    Get emergency help for:

    • Bleeding that rapidly soaks through pads or makes you feel weak
    • Severe or worsening abdominal pain
    • One-sided pain or pain at the tip of the shoulder
    • Fainting, severe dizziness, confusion, or trouble breathing
    • Collapse or signs of shock, such as cold, clammy skin

    These symptoms can indicate major blood loss, infection, or an ectopic pregnancy.

    Do not drive yourself if you feel faint or seriously unwell.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Contact a healthcare professional promptly for any bleeding during pregnancy.

    Seek urgent same-day care if you have:

    • Increasing bleeding or pain
    • Persistent vomiting or difficulty drinking
    • Fever, chills, or foul-smelling vaginal discharge
    • Bleeding or pain after miscarriage treatment that is not improving
    • A pregnancy test that remains positive when your care service expected it to be negative
  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Routine follow-up is still important when symptoms are mild.

    It can confirm that the miscarriage is complete and provide a chance to discuss physical recovery, contraception, future pregnancy, or emotional support.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Miscarriage. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.