From the Research
Bleeding after a miscarriage typically lasts about two weeks but can continue for up to a month, with the heaviest bleeding occurring in the first few days and gradually tapering off, as noted in the most recent study 1. The duration of bleeding varies depending on how far along the pregnancy was, with later miscarriages potentially causing longer bleeding periods. Some key points to consider after a miscarriage include:
- The bleeding will change from bright red to brown or pink before stopping completely
- If you experience bleeding that soaks through more than two pads per hour for two consecutive hours, severe pain not relieved by over-the-counter pain medication, foul-smelling discharge, or a fever over 100.4°F (38°C), you should seek immediate medical attention as these could indicate complications such as infection or retained tissue
- Most healthcare providers recommend avoiding tampons, sexual intercourse, and douching during this time to reduce infection risk
- The bleeding occurs as the uterus sheds its lining and any remaining pregnancy tissue while contracting back to its normal size
- Complete physical recovery typically takes a few weeks, though emotional healing may take longer, and treatment options such as expectant, medical, and surgical management are available, as discussed in 1. It's essential to follow the guidance of a healthcare provider for personalized care and to address any concerns or complications that may arise after a miscarriage, as highlighted in 2 and 1.