A missed miscarriage refers to a type of pregnancy loss that is not always accompanied by symptoms, such as abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding. This type of miscarriage involves an implanted foetus that dies or does not develop.
An incomplete miscarriage refers to pregnancy loss where some tissue remains in the uterus. In this case, a procedure called dilation and curettage (D&C) may be necessary.
It is not possible to stop a miscarriage in most cases, as pregnancy loss is often related to significant defects of the foetus. Additionally, missed miscarriages do not always cause symptoms like abdominal cramping, so most women who experience them do not require pain medication.
In the event that a missed miscarriage is also incomplete, meaning that there’s still tissue within the uterus, D&C is necessary to prevent further complications. For instance, leaving tissue behind can result in heavy bleeding, or it can lead to an infection.
To prepare for D&C, doctors may use a medication called misoprostol to dilate the cervix, which provides easier access to any remaining internal tissue. This medication can be taken orally, but it can also be administered directly to the vagina.
Doctors usually recommend non-prescription pain killers, such as ibuprofen, to manage discomfort after the procedure. Additionally, patients are encouraged to rest for a few days before returning to normal activities.