NHS Miscarriage Rethink

Revised thinking, around miscarriage, rethinking NSH standard of only having help after three miscarriage is at last being reconsidered.

NHS backed research suggests offering support after a single miscarriage is more appropriate to save couples heartache.

A recent Birmingham women’s hospital and Tommy’s project offering women support after one miscarriage, showed more prevention with a reduction of baby loss compared to the normal NHS model of access to support after three miscarriages.

Tommy’s charity is the guiding spotlight on miscarriage, with risk factors found.

Women in the new care model were 47% more likely to have a treatable risk factor identified. In the study, women were seen to have treatable health issues, including abnormal thyroid function and anaemia. Lack of progesterone was another theme. Underlying health conditions which could affect infertility and the chances of a healthy pregnancy.

The trial standard guidelines are achievable for the NHS: The pilot demonstrated that this enhanced pathway fits into existing hospital ‘Early Pregnancy Units’ without creating heavy extra workloads. And could save the NHS funds with preventative options for women.

This rethink could dramatically improve pregnancy outcomes for couples exposing hidden health conditions earlier, bringing a common sense prevention theme into fertility. An improved care package urgently needed in NHS. The long term effects of grief, deep emotional loss for thousands of new parents, trauma is underestimated. Logically, revaluation of early support helps to avoid emotional outpouring.

Disparity exists in the devolved nations: England and Scotland are putting new thinking in place. Wales and Ireland still use NHS standards of help after three miscarriages.

Couples need standard care across all nations.

Joy Wisdom

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