A miscarriage can last anywhere from several days to a few weeks, depending on how far along the pregnancy is and how the miscarriage is managed. With expectant management, where the body passes the pregnancy tissue naturally, the process may take up to several weeks to fully complete.
Bleeding and cramping are usually strongest when the pregnancy tissue is passing. Afterward, lighter bleeding may continue for about 1 to 3 weeks. In some cases, it can take longer for the miscarriage to begin, and people who choose expectant management are often reassessed after about 7 to 14 days if symptoms have not started or are continuing. Read more about miscarriage symptoms and how they can present.
The length of a miscarriage can also differ with medication or surgical treatment. Follow-up may be needed to confirm that the pregnancy tissue has completely passed, especially if bleeding or other symptoms continue.
Seek urgent medical care for very heavy bleeding, severe or worsening pain, fever, fainting, or feeling very unwell. An OBGYN or other healthcare professional should also be contacted if bleeding continues longer than expected or there is concern that the miscarriage may not be complete.