A missed miscarriage, also called a silent miscarriage, occurs when a pregnancy has stopped developing but has not yet been passed from the body, and there may be no bleeding, pain or other warning signs at all. It is often discovered unexpectedly at a routine early scan, such as a viability scan after IVF, when no heartbeat is seen at a stage when one would be expected. This can come as a considerable shock, particularly when there were no physical symptoms beforehand. Management options usually include waiting for the pregnancy to pass naturally, taking medication to help it pass, or a minor surgical procedure; your gynaecologist will discuss what is suitable for you and there is no single 'right' choice.
Also known as: silent miscarriage, delayed miscarriage
Related India guides
Sources
- Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India (fogsi.org)
Last reviewed: 9 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.