21/04/2026
A MISSED ABORTION ?
occurs when an embryo or fetus has died or failed to develop, but the body has not yet recognized the loss.
Unlike a typical miscarriage, where physical symptoms like heavy bleeding or intense cramping occur immediately, in a missed abortion, the placental tissue may continue to release hormones. This means the body still "feels" pregnant, and the physical process of expelling the pregnancy tissue hasn't started.
Key Characteristics
Absence of Symptoms also frequently referred to by medical professionals as a silent miscarriage*,:Many women experience no pain, cramping, or vaginal bleeding.
Continued Pregnancy Signs:Because hormones like hCG may still be present, you might still feel nausea or breast tenderness, though these symptoms sometimes fade.
Discovery: It is almost always diagnosed during a routine ultrasound when a healthcare provider notices the absence of a fetal heartbeat or that the embryo is not growing as it should.
Why Does It Happen?
In most cases, a missed abortion is caused by *chromosomal abnormalities* that prevent the pregnancy from developing naturally. It is not caused by anything the mother did or didn't do, such as exercise, stress, or diet.
Management Options
Once diagnosed, there are generally three paths a person can take in consultation with their doctor:
1. *Expectant Management:* Waiting for the body to recognize the loss and pass the tissue naturally (this can take several days or weeks).
2. *Medical Management:* Using medication to help the body begin the process of clearing the uterus.
3. *Surgical Management:* A minor procedure, often called a D&C (dilation and curettage), to safely remove the tissue.
It is a deeply emotional experience, and if you or someone you know is going through this, seeking emotional support alongside medical care is very important.
