Post-Miscarriage Bleeding That Increases with Activity
It is completely normal for post-miscarriage bleeding to increase with standing, walking, or physical activity, as gravity and increased intra-abdominal pressure facilitate the expulsion of blood and tissue that has pooled in the uterus while lying down. 1
Why Bleeding Increases with Activity
Gravitational effects: When you are lying down or resting, blood and clots accumulate in the uterine cavity and vaginal vault. Upon standing or walking, gravity causes this pooled blood to flow out, creating the perception of increased bleeding 1
Increased intra-abdominal pressure: Physical activity raises intra-abdominal pressure, which mechanically promotes the expulsion of retained blood products from the uterus 2
This pattern does NOT indicate active hemorrhage in most cases—it simply reflects the passive drainage of blood that was already present 1
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
You should go to the emergency department immediately if you experience:
Heavy bleeding: Soaking through more than one sanitary pad per hour with blood and clots 1
Signs of hemodynamic instability: Dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, rapid heartbeat, or feeling cold and clammy 2, 3
Severe abdominal pain: Pain that is not controlled with over-the-counter analgesics or that worsens progressively 1
Fever or foul-smelling discharge: These suggest infection (endometritis) requiring antibiotics 2
Safe Activity Guidelines After Miscarriage
Light activity is encouraged and beneficial:
Activities of daily living (walking around the home, self-care, light household tasks) are safe and should be maintained 4
Gentle walking is permissible and does not increase the risk of complications 2, 5
Avoid prolonged sitting: Break up sedentary time every 20-30 minutes with light movement 2
Moderate to vigorous activity should be resumed gradually:
Previously inactive women: Start slowly with a few minutes of light activity daily and gradually increase frequency and intensity over 1-2 weeks 2
Previously active women: You may resume your usual activity level as long as you have no complications, but restart gradually 2
No evidence exists that light-to-moderate physical activity increases miscarriage risk or causes complications after miscarriage 5
Expected Bleeding Pattern
Duration: Bleeding typically lasts 7-14 days after miscarriage, though spotting may continue for several weeks 6, 1
Volume: Bleeding should gradually decrease over time. An initial increase when you first stand after resting is normal 1
Clots: Passing small clots is normal, especially in the first few days 1
Common Pitfall to Avoid
Do not assume that increased bleeding with activity means you need complete bed rest. Bed rest is not beneficial after miscarriage and may actually be harmful by increasing the risk of blood clots 4. Light activity promotes normal recovery and does not worsen outcomes 2, 5.
Follow-Up Care
Routine follow-up should occur within 1-2 weeks to confirm complete expulsion of pregnancy tissue 6, 1
If bleeding persists beyond 14 days or symptoms worsen, return for repeat evaluation to exclude retained products of conception 1
Anti-D prophylaxis is required if you are Rh-negative and the pregnancy was ≥12 weeks' gestation 1