Self-Induced Miscarriage: Is It Safe?

A positive pregnancy test may make you feel like your life is suddenly out of your control. So, you may have searched “how to have a miscarriage” in an attempt to end the pregnancy quickly and privately.

We imagine that you feel overwhelmed, and perhaps scared. But, before you try to end the pregnancy, you should gather the facts about your pregnancy and the risks of self-induced miscarriage. Let’s explore all that you need to know.

What is a “Self-Induced Miscarriage”?

The first thing you need to know is that there is no such thing as “inducing a miscarriage.” What you’re really talking about is inducing an abortion—big difference!

When a woman is carrying a normally progressing pregnancy, her body is doing what it is designed to do: Keep the cervix closed and prevent cramping and bleeding.

In contrast, when a woman is carrying a pregnancy that is in the process of miscarrying, the hormone levels are not as high compared to a pregnancy that is progressing, the cervix starts to soften and begins to open, the uterus contracts and begins to release blood.

Abortion vs. Miscarriage: What’s the Difference?

It’s important to understand the difference between abortion and miscarriage. Although these terms are often used interchangeably, they are not the same things.

An abortion (or induced abortion) is a procedure that intentionally ends a pregnancy.[1] A miscarriage (sometimes called a spontaneous abortion) is the sudden and unexpected loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week.[1] It occurs due to reasons outside of the pregnant woman’s control.

The term “self-induced miscarriage” is a misnomer. “Inducing a miscarriage” is actually giving oneself an abortion. However, we know women may search these terms while exploring pregnancy options. We have used these terms in this article to connect with women and share the facts and risks of abortion.

What to Know Before Attempting to End a Pregnancy

How far along am I?

It’s important to know how far along you are in your pregnancy. Although you can guess based on your last menstrual period, an ultrasound is the most accurate way to know how far along you are.

Is your pregnancy viable?

You need to know that you have an intrauterine pregnancy–meaning one that is located inside the uterus, in the normal position. A pregnancy that is located outside the uterus is known as an ectopic pregnancy. These pregnancies can cause life-threatening complications and require emergent medical attention.

You also need to know if the pregnancy is progressing. Miscarriages occur in about 20% of known pregnancies, often in the first trimester.[2] So, before ending the pregnancy, you should know if you’re in the process of having a natural miscarriage.

can connect you with a local pregnancy center that provides free ultrasounds. Call us at 866-406-9327 to get started.

What are The Risks of “Self-Induced Miscarriage”?

The idea of a self-induced miscarriage may feel convenient and relieving. However, it can pose serious threats to your physical health. Some risks could include:

• Incomplete abortion with retained pregnancy tissue, requiring medical or surgical interventions[3]
• Hemorrhage (excessive bleeding requiring medical or surgical intervention)[4]
• Infection that could result in pelvic organ scarring that could affect future pregnancies[5]
• Failed abortion (pregnancy continues to grow and may develop abnormalities due to the drugs used to abort)[6]
• Allergic reactions[7]
• Poisoning[8]
• Organ failure[9]
• Death (the risk of death is very small)[10]

Is it Safe to Use Herbs to Induce Miscarriage?

No one should take herbs or home remedies to end a pregnancy. Taking herbs to induce miscarriage could cause severe complications including organ failure,[9] or even death.[10]

Can Stress Cause a Miscarriage?

Research affirms that stress, exercise, sexual activity, and prolonged use of birth control do not cause miscarriage.[11] Nonetheless, your mental and emotional well-being is extremely important.

Have questions? Need a safe place to express your feelings? Your local pregnancy support center is there to talk. Call us at 866-406-9327 to get started.

Can Physical Harm Induce a Miscarriage?

If you’re experiencing an unexpected pregnancy and considering harming yourself, please know that you have other options. Inflicting physical harm can threaten your health and your life.

Call to speak confidentially with our kind and compassionate staff.

Do I Need an Abortion if I am Miscarrying?

Remember that there is a big difference between a natural miscarriage and an induced abortion. During a miscarriage, the body is in the process of releasing a pregnancy that did not continue to grow. If you think you may be experiencing a miscarriage, seek medical care immediately.[11]

If your uterus hasn’t passed all the pregnancy tissue or if you’re bleeding heavily, your doctor may perform a surgical procedure and/or administer medications to remove the remaining tissue and stop the bleeding.[11]

While the surgical techniques to perform an induced abortion and manage a natural miscarriage are similar, the medical or surgical treatment for a miscarriage is NOT an abortion. They are morally and legally different. An abortion ends a living pregnancy, but with a miscarriage, the pregnancy has died naturally.

There are no laws that would prohibit women from receiving care for miscarriages.

Considering “Self-Induced Miscarriage”? Call First.

Before trying to end your pregnancy, contact . Our compassionate team wants to provide you with the information you need to make the best decision for your health and your future.

We can connect you with a local pregnancy center that provides free, confidential services including:

• Pregnancy testing
• Ultrasounds to confirm pregnancy
• Pregnancy options education
• Referrals to community resources

Ready to take the next step? Give us a call to get started.

The information provided in this article is for educational purposes and should not replace medical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. If you’re experiencing a medical emergency, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room immediately.