Home / Health / Early miscarriage tests could save 10,000 babies yearly
Early miscarriage tests could save 10,000 babies yearly
29 Apr
Summary
- Early tests after first miscarriage could prevent over 10,000 losses annually.
- A graded care model offers earlier specialist consultations and tests.
- The NHS could save over £40 million annually with this approach.

A pilot study indicates that implementing a "graded model" of miscarriage care across the UK could prevent approximately 10,075 miscarriages annually. This revised approach involves earlier intervention, with women offered specialist consultations after their first loss to discuss pre-conception and pregnancy health. For subsequent losses, further tests for conditions like anemia or thyroid issues would be offered. If adopted nationwide, this strategy could help more than 10,000 families successfully bring their babies home each year, mitigating the profound trauma of pregnancy loss. The study also suggests potential annual savings exceeding £40 million for the NHS. Scotland has already integrated this model into its care pathway. Policymakers in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland are being urged to follow suit, with the Government reviewing miscarriage support within its Women's Health Strategy. This research highlights the potential for improved, earlier support for women experiencing pregnancy loss, aiming to reduce feelings of isolation and hopelessness.