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Miscarriage Prevention: A Complete UK Guide

Can miscarriage be prevented?

The honest answer is: sometimes. Most miscarriages are caused by chromosomal problems in the embryo that no one could have predicted or prevented. But there are evidence-based steps you can take before and during pregnancy to give yourself the best chance of a healthy pregnancy.

This guide focuses on what the research actually shows, not on the myths that circulate online. If you have had a miscarriage before, these steps may help, but they are also relevant for anyone planning a pregnancy in the UK.

Before you try: preconception care

Good preconception care makes a real difference. Ideally, start three months before you try to conceive, because eggs take around three months to mature and sperm around three months to form. Key steps include:

  • Take 400 micrograms of folic acid daily - or 5mg if you are overweight, over 40, or have a higher-risk background. The NHS recommends starting before conception to reduce the risk of neural tube defects and possibly miscarriage.
  • Stop smoking - both partners. Smoking doubles the risk of miscarriage and reduces fertility. Ask your GP about NHS stop-smoking services.
  • Cut out alcohol - the NHS advises no alcohol in pregnancy or when trying to conceive.
  • Check your weight - aim for a BMI between 19 and 30. Both very low and very high BMI increase miscarriage risk.
  • Review medications - some medicines are not safe in pregnancy. Ask your GP or pharmacist.
  • Update vaccinations - rubella and chickenpox immunity should be checked.
  • Eat a balanced diet - there is no "miscarriage diet", but a varied diet rich in fruit, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein supports healthy fertility.
  • Limit caffeine to under 200mg a day (around two cups of tea or one mug of filter coffee).

During pregnancy

Once you are pregnant, the following steps are supported by evidence:

  • Continue folic acid for the first 12 weeks.
  • Consider a pregnancy multivitamin containing vitamin D (10 micrograms).
  • Eat safely - avoid unpasteurised cheese, raw or undercooked meat, and certain fish. Follow NHS guidance on food safety.
  • Stay active - moderate exercise such as walking, swimming, or yoga is safe and beneficial. The NHS recommends 150 minutes of moderate activity a week.
  • Attend all your antenatal appointments so any problems are picked up early.
  • Avoid certain infections - wash hands, wear gloves when gardening, and avoid cat litter to reduce toxoplasmosis risk.

If you have had a previous loss

If you have had one or more miscarriages, additional steps may help:

  • Ask about progesterone - the PRISM trial (2019) found that progesterone pessaries in early pregnancy may help women who have had three or more losses and who experience bleeding. Ask your GP or early pregnancy unit.
  • Ask for early scans - many NHS units offer reassurance scans after previous loss.
  • Consider aspirin if you have antiphospholipid syndrome or risk factors for pre-eclampsia. Always take this on medical advice.
  • Get referred to a recurrent miscarriage clinic after three losses, or earlier if you have risk factors.
  • Look after your mental health - anxiety after loss is common. Ask your GP about NHS talking therapies.

What does NOT work

Be cautious of claims online. The following are not proven to prevent miscarriage:

Support is available from Tommy's (0800 0147 800), the Miscarriage Association (01924 200799), and your GP. You are not alone, and there is good evidence to help you try again with confidence.