Missed miscarriage (fetal demise without symptoms) is uncommon by 20 weeks, with most losses occurring earlier, though second-trimester loss (13-20 weeks) happens in 1-3% of pregnancies, a rate much lower than first-trimester losses. While the risk decreases significantly, the 20-week anatomy scan can detect fetal issues, but actual missed miscarriages are rare at this stage, usually diagnosed earlier, though sometimes found at the scan if the body hasn't recognized the loss yet.
Most 20 week anatomy scans bring reassurance. Serious issues are rare, and many findings that do come up are minor or resolve on their own. Still, it's normal to feel anxious. Around 3–5% of scans may identify something that requires follow-up.
A missed miscarriage is often diagnosed at a routine ultrasound scan, whether around 12 weeks or at the 20 week 'anomaly' scan. However it might also be seen at a non-routine scan, NHS or private, whether or not there are any symptoms.
A stillbirth happens when the fetus dies after week 20 of pregnancy. Stillbirths can have multiple causes, including problems with the placenta or umbilical cord, genetic conditions that affect the fetus or pregnancy complications. There are resources available to support you through a pregnancy loss.
Typical signs are vaginal bleeding and cramping (like a heavy period), and sometimes fever or profuse vaginal discharge. It's estimated that about 2% of pregnancies between 10 and 14 weeks end in a missed miscarriage. While this percentage may seem small, the impact on those who experience it is deeply felt.
About 2-3% of pregnancies will be lost in the second trimester, a rate that is much lower than in the first trimester. Once a pregnancy gets to about 20 weeks gestation, less than 0.5% will end in a fetal demise. A loss at this time in pregnancy is most often a hard and sad experience.
According to one study, once a pregnancy gets past 6/7 weeks and has a heartbeat, the risk of having a miscarriage drops to around 10%. Many women will not be aware of this point and commonly the heartbeat is not checked until the first ultrasound scan around week 11/12.
Stillbirth is the loss of a baby after 20 weeks of pregnancy. When a baby dies while still in the uterus, this may also be called fetal loss. A doctor may deliver the baby by giving you medicine to start labour. Or you may have a procedure called D&E (dilation and evacuation).
These findings suggest that stress in primiparous pregnant women with high cortisol levels may influence fetal heart rate patterns. It was revealed that the increase in cortisol level, considered a stress hormone, may be a harbinger of fetal tachycardia.
Five key warning signs during pregnancy needing immediate medical attention include vaginal bleeding, severe headaches with vision changes, decreased baby movement, severe abdominal pain/cramping, and signs of preterm labor like regular contractions or fluid leakage, as these can signal serious issues like miscarriage, preeclampsia, placental problems, or infection. Always contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency care for these symptoms.
Causes of second trimester loss (late miscarriage)
You'll have your second scan, known as the fetal anomaly scan between 18 and 21 weeks. The reason for this scan is to check your baby for any physical health problems. In most cases, the scan will show that the baby appears to be developing as expected.
The main symptoms of second trimester loss are vaginal bleeding, painful cramps in your abdomen (stomach), or the waters breaking or leaking out from around the baby. For some people these symptoms may go on a long time, with repeated visits or stays in hospital.
Some more severe birth defects may be able to be diagnosed during the 12- or 13-week ultrasound. However, most will be diagnosed during the detailed anatomy scan, typically performed at 20 weeks.
nosebleeds. bloating and constipation (read about bloating on week 10's page) indigestion and heartburn (week 25 talks about digestive problems) sore breasts.
It's normal to be both excited and nervous about your 20-week ultrasound appointment. You'll get to see the fetus and find out how it's developing. Talk to your healthcare provider about any concerns you have so they can offer reassurance and ease your worries.
Sleep deprivation during pregnancy leaded to poor fetal outcomes, including miscarriage and intrauterine growth restriction.
Four key signs of fetal distress (baby distress in the womb) include abnormal heart rate patterns, decreased fetal movement (fewer kicks), the presence of meconium-stained amniotic fluid (greenish-brown fluid), and sometimes lack of fetal growth. These signs, often detected through prenatal monitoring, signal potential oxygen deprivation or other issues requiring medical attention.
A pregnancy may also be more likely to end in miscarriage if you:
In some cases , the fetus dies but the womb does not empty, and a person will experience no bleeding or other symptoms. Some doctors refer to this type of pregnancy loss as a missed miscarriage. The loss may go unnoticed for many weeks, and some people do not seek treatment.
Stillbirth signs, symptoms and risks
going to sleep on your side, not on your back. taking folic acid before and up to 12 weeks of pregnancy. making sure all your vaccines are up to date – speak to your midwife or GP for advice. limiting the amount of caffeine you consume during pregnancy.
There is no evidence of reduction in the risk of miscarriage in women prescribed bed rest. HCG administration as an alternative care for threatened miscarriage was more effective than bed rest in the Harrison study but this benefit is not confirmed when compared with placebo.
However, some people may notice that their pregnancy symptoms, like breast soreness, nausea, or tiredness, go away. Some may also see light brown or red discharge. About 1 to 5 percent of all pregnancies end in a missed miscarriage.
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