I think I’m having a miscarriage
If you are pregnant—or think you may be—and are concerned, or experiencing any of the following symptoms,
Significant changes in the colour and/or amount of bleeding
Heavier, period-like bleeding (e.g. soaking through more than one pad per hour)
Passing blood clots or pregnancy tissue
Period-like lower abdominal cramping or muscle tightening
Lower back or pelvic pain
A sudden disappearance of pregnancy symptoms such as nausea, tender breasts, or fatigue
A strange and sudden feeling that you are no longer pregnant
Contact your healthcare provider, midwife, Early Pregnancy Assessment Service (EPAS), or your local hospital.
You can also call Healthdirect on 1800 022 222 for 24-hour advice.
Miscarriage looks and feels different for every woman
There is always a reason for a miscarriage, though it may never be fully known or understood.
Unfortunately, there is nothing you can do to stop a miscarriage once it has begun.
Some miscarriages occur suddenly, resolve quickly, and require no medical treatment; others can become medical emergencies.
It is important to pay attention to your body.
Here are a few things that might help you navigate this period of uncertainty: If in doubt, seek medical attention.
What is "excessive" bleeding?
Vaginal bleeding is often the first sign that something might be wrong. However, bleeding that is light in early pregnancy is common and does not always lead to miscarriage.
Around 30% of women experience vaginal bleeding in early pregnancy
Eighty per cent of these pregnancies continue to term.
Bleeding that is of concern is bleeding that is bright red in colour and is increasing in volume over an hour.
(DeVilbiss et.al, 2020)
Loss of pregnancy symptoms.
Many women report a sudden or subtle change in how they feel, saying, "I just didn’t feel pregnant anymore." This can be a gradual or sudden loss of pregnancy symptoms (nausea, breast tenderness, fatigue) may occur.
While not always clinically significant, if you feel something is wrong, trust your instincts and speak with your provider.
Missed Miscarriage.
Some women experience no noticeable symptoms, and miscarriage is only detected during a routine scan showing no foetal growth or cardiac activity. This happens for so many reasons, foetal and maternal.
Instead of bringing home an ultrasound picture, women are left with a lack of information and even less empathy.
Where to Seek Help.
Emergency Department (ED)
If you're experiencing severe symptoms or are unsure, go to your local ED
Your general practitioner (GP)
Your GP can assess your symptoms, take a detailed history, and organise ultrasounds and blood work to confirm a miscarriage.
They can also provide referrals to your local EPAS.
Your GP may prescribe Misoprostol and Mifepristone (medication used to manage miscarriage)
Obstetrician/Gynaecologist (OBGYN)
Can provide ongoing and follow-up care, prescribe medication, and perform surgical management.
Early Pregnancy Assessment Service (EPAS)
EPAS clinics are located within public hospitals throughout Australia. They provide support for women with early pregnancy complications (typically up to 13 weeks. Staffed by midwives, nurses, and doctors specialising in early pregnancy care
Can provide ultrasounds, counselling, guidance and referral for any further clinical care you need
If I need to head into the ED or to an EPAS clinic, what do I need?
Medicare card
Any documents that you may have from your GP, midwife, or OBGYN
Anything that will keep you occupied/provide comfort (EDs are busy, noisy places that are uncomfortable for so many. You may have a bit of a wait to receive treatment)
Period underwear, pads or disposable postnatal underwear - you cannot use tampons or menstrual cups for about 2 weeks.
Ensure you are wearing something comfortable and have a spare outfit available in case you need to undergo surgery.
Compassionate, Clear Guidance After Miscarriage
Daisy offers a gentle, easy-to-navigate resource designed to support you after a miscarriage diagnosis. Rooted in informed choice and empowered decision-making—two elements often lacking in standard care—this guide helps you better understand your options and feel confident in advocating for your needs.
With clear language and well-researched information, it’s here to meet you where you are: offering clarity, compassion, and support at every step.