Teddy bear wtih a stethoscope

Miscarriage & Early Pregnancy Care

Pregnancy loss can be an overwhelming and deeply personal experience. Miscarriage is sadly very common — affecting about 1 in 4 pregnancies — but that doesn’t make it any less significant. Every person’s experience is different, and it’s important to recognise both the physical and emotional impact of miscarriage.

I aim to provide clear information, compassionate care, and support for you and your whānau at this difficult time.

What is miscarriage?

Miscarriage means the loss of a pregnancy before 20 weeks.

  • Most miscarriages happen in the first trimester (the first 12 weeks).
  • They are almost always due to factors outside of anyone’s control, such as problems with the developing pregnancy.
  • Nothing you did or didn’t do has caused your miscarriage.

Symptoms of miscarriage

Common signs include:

  • Vaginal bleeding (light spotting through to heavy bleeding)
  • Cramping or pain in the lower abdomen
  • Passing tissue or clots from the vagina
  • A sudden loss of pregnancy symptoms (such as breast tenderness or nausea)

Types of miscarriage

  • Threatened miscarriage — bleeding occurs, but the pregnancy may continue.
  • Incomplete miscarriage — some of the pregnancy remains in the uterus.
  • Missed miscarriage — the pregnancy has stopped developing but there are no obvious symptoms.
  • Complete miscarriage — the entire pregnancy has passed naturally.

Options for management

Your care depends on your symptoms, your health, and your personal preferences. Options may include:

  • Expectant (natural) management

    • Allowing the miscarriage to progress naturally over time
    • Suitable if there is no heavy bleeding or infection

  • Medical management

    • Medication (usually misoprostol) helps the body complete the miscarriage
    • Can often be managed at home with support and follow-up

  • Surgical management

    • A minor procedure (such as suction curettage or hysteroscopic resection) to remove the pregnancy
    • Performed under anaesthetic in hospital
    • Provides certainty and is often recommended if bleeding is heavy or there are complications

I will talk through the options with you and support you in choosing what feels right.

Emotional support

Pregnancy loss is not just a medical event — it is a bereavement.

  • It’s normal to feel grief, sadness, guilt, or anger.
  • Some people want to talk about their experience straight away, while others prefer time and privacy.
  • Support is available through your GP, counsellors, or miscarriage support groups.
  • If you’re finding it hard to cope, please reach out — you don’t need to go through this alone.

Miscarriage Support NZ offers information and support for all people experiencing pregnancy loss.

Future pregnancies

  • Most will go on to have a healthy pregnancy after a miscarriage.
  • Having one miscarriage does not usually mean there is an underlying problem.
  • If you have had three or more miscarriages in a row (recurrent miscarriage), further tests and investigations may be recommended.

When to seek urgent help

Call your doctor, early pregnancy unit, or go to the nearest emergency department if you experience:

  • Very heavy bleeding (soaking more than two pads per hour)
  • Severe abdominal pain not eased by pain relief
  • Faintness, dizziness, or feeling unwell
  • Fever, chills, or offensive vaginal discharge

Our approach

Every person’s experience of miscarriage is unique. Excellent care includes:

  • Sensitive diagnosis and explanation
  • Discussion of management options and support in making decisions
  • Safe and effective medical or surgical treatment where needed
  • Compassionate emotional support and referral to counselling or support services
Dr Sam Holford

Experiencing pregnancy loss?

I provide urgent, compassionate miscarriage and early pregnancy care in Auckland. You are not alone. I am here to help you through this.

Book an appointment

FAQs

What causes a miscarriage?
Most miscarriages are caused by random chromosomal abnormalities in the developing pregnancy, which means they are not viable. It is very rarely caused by anything the pregnant person has done or not done. It is not your fault.
How soon can we try for another baby after a miscarriage?
Physically, you can often start trying again as soon as the bleeding has stopped and you feel ready. Emotionally, it is important to give yourself time to grieve and recover. There is no right or wrong timeline, and we can discuss what feels right for you.
Is bleeding in early pregnancy always a sign of miscarriage?
Not always. Light bleeding or spotting can be common in early pregnancy for a number of reasons. However, it should always be checked out by a health professional to rule out any problems and get reassurance.
Do I need time off work to recover from a miscarriage?
In New Zealand, you are entitled to bereavement leave after a miscarriage. Taking time off to recover both physically and emotionally is important. How much time is needed varies for each person.
How do I know if the miscarriage is complete?
A complete miscarriage means all the pregnancy tissue has passed from the uterus. This can be confirmed with a follow-up ultrasound scan or by monitoring your bleeding and symptoms. If symptoms like heavy bleeding or pain persist, it may be incomplete and require further management.

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Please note: This information is general in nature and not a substitute for medical advice tailored to your specific situation.