Pregnancy loss can happen in many ways.
Sometimes it is completed naturally, without any need for intervention.
Sometimes the bleeding begins but then stalls out.
And many miscarriages are diagnosed as mine was, when a routine ultrasound showed no heartbeat.
Before we examine the new study, lets take a quick look at the other options for miscarriage management.
Meanwhile, were left in limbo, hoping that the bleeding doesnt start at an inopportune moment.
If the process goes on too long, your OB will probably recommend trying a different approach.
Thats rare, but I have seen that happen, Krieg said.
At that point, my OB recommended a D&C, which brings us to the next option.
Your doctor will usually prescribe some pain medication and explain how to tell if the bleeding is too much.
The downside to misoprostol is that, like expectant management, it doesnt always work.
If it doesnt work, patients end up with a D&C.
The results werepublished in June in the New England Journal of Medicine.
Adding mifepristone to the miscarriage treatment protocol significantly improved the process, the study found.
Why access to mifepristone is limited
However, theres an important obstacle to using mifepristone.
Some physicians may also be restricted by their institution or health system in becoming mifepristone providers.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists agrees.
Mifepristone offers a better, more efficacious way to complete a miscarriage.
Ideally, wed be able to make the rules regarding prescribing mifepristone less restrictive, Krieg said.
(Find mifepristone providersherethough these lists may not be complete.)
