Patient information
Why do I have bleeding and/or pain in early pregnancy?
Bleeding and/or pain is a common complication in early pregnancy. It can be very worrying when it occurs.
Frequently, bleeding and or pain in early pregnancy does not mean that there is a problem with the pregnancy.
However, sometimes bleeding and or pain may indicate bleeding around the implantation site of the pregnancy, a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy.
What is an early pregnancy scan?
An early pregnancy scan is usually a transvaginal ultrasound and occasionally, a transabdominal ultrasound to view your womb, fallopian tubes, ovaries, bladder and pelvis.
A transvaginal ultrasound scan provides a more detailed view of the location of the pregnancy and the developing embryo. A transvaginal ultrasound scan is inserted vaginally to provide clear images. It is comfortable and safe in pregnancy.
What is a 3D scan?
A 3D scan provides a 3 dimensional view of the womb. It is used to provide very detailed images of the structure of the womb and confirm correct location of a pregnancy.
What is a Miscarriage?
A miscarriage is the natural loss of a pregnancy. Sadly, miscarriage is a common complication in early pregnancy. It is often associated with vaginal bleeding and pain – this is called a spontaneous miscarriage. On other occasions, a miscarriage can occur without pain, bleeding or any other signs. This is called a missed miscarriage.
A miscarriage can be treated conservatively, medically or surgically.
Why did I have a Miscarriage?
Whilst miscarriages are very common (one in every five pregnancies result in a miscarriage), we do not always know why they occur. The most common reason is due to a chromosomal abnormality during the early development of an embryo. Other causes of miscarriage are less common. Most importantly, miscarriage is not the fault of you or your partner. Reassuringly, many women who suffer a miscarriage go on to have a successful pregnancy.
How is a Miscarriage medically managed?
Some miscarriages may be managed medically using a prostaglandin tablet called Misoprostol to gently open the entrance of the womb allowing the pregnancy to pass. This process can happen at home or in a hospital setting.
What is an Evacuation of Retained Products of Conception (ERPC)?
A miscarriage can be managed surgically by performing an ERPC. This is where the pregnancy tissue is gently and sensitively removed from the womb using suction. This is a minor procedure performed under general anaesthetic.
What is Ectopic Pregnancy?
An ectopic pregnancy is the location of a pregnancy outside the cavity of the womb where pregnancies normally implant. The most common abnormal location for an ectopic pregnancy is within the fallopian tubes.
This can cause pain and bleeding and in some instances can cause damage to the fallopian tube. Unfortunately an ectopic pregnancy can not be moved from an abnormal location into the womb cavity.
What is a laparoscopy?
A laparoscopy is a procedure using a camera to look inside the abdomen and its organs. It is a minimally invasive procedure commonly used to diagnose and treat an ectopic pregnancy.
What happens after pregnancy loss?
Physically you should be able to return to your normal daily activities fairly soon following pregnancy loss. Your normal menstrual cycle should return within 4-6 weeks. You may find that it takes longer to recover psychologically from pregnancy loss – though this is different for every woman. You may try to conceive again when you feel physically and mentally ready to do so.
Do I need to be referred by a doctor to EP+?
No. You can refer yourself online or via telephone. You will be given a detailed report of your consultation and scan and a copy will also be sent to your family doctor.
Am I covered with my medical insurance?
We accept all major health insurers. You may wish to check with your individual provider if you have specific cover.
I am an international client. Can I be seen by EP+
EP+ warmly welcomes all International clients and self payers. Please contact us online or via telephone for further details.
Where can I get support after pregnancy loss?
Living through pregnancy loss can be extremely difficult. Here are a few ways to access support during this time:
The Miscarriage Association
The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust
Petals Counselling Charity
British Infertility Counselling Association
Your GP
