New research presented at the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) Annual Meeting has found that hospital admissions for miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy have risen in England in recent years despite deliveries declining.
Sindhu Sekar, Lead Author, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University of Liverpool and Liverpool Women’s NHS Foundation Trust, said:
“The reasons [for the increase in admissions] are likely to be complex, but changes in healthcare delivery during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, shifts in healthcare-seeking behaviour, increasing maternal age, rising obesity levels and broader reproductive health risk factors may all be playing a role.”
The nationwide study, which analysed more than 20 years of NHS data, found that admissions for both miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy have increased in the post-pandemic period. It also identified persistent inequalities, with women living in the most deprived communities continuing to experience higher rates of miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy admissions than those in the least deprived areas.
Commenting on the implications of the study’s findings, Professor Dr Anis Feki, Chair of ESHRE, said:
“These findings are an important reminder that pregnancy loss and ectopic pregnancy are not only clinical events, but also reflect broader inequalities in women’s health. The recent rise in admissions deserves careful attention, and strengthening equitable early pregnancy care is a concrete way to improve outcomes and better support women and families.”
Vicki Robinson, Chief Executive of Miscarriage UK, said:
“These findings reinforce what we’ve heard through our own research and from the thousands of people who contact our support services every year. Pregnancy loss affects around one in four pregnancies, yet too many people continue to experience variation in care, inconsistent access to specialist services and a lack of meaningful follow-up after their loss.
“With hospital admissions for miscarriage and other early pregnancy complications increasing, it is more important than ever that people can access timely assessment, clear clinical pathways and compassionate, consistent care. As national action plans are developed following the recent maternity investigations, it is essential they reflect the whole pregnancy journey, including pregnancy loss, so that no one falls through the gaps between maternity and gynaecology services.
“Behind every statistic is a person experiencing one of the most devastating moments of their lives. They deserve to be listened to, treated with compassion and have access to high-quality care.”
Sindhu Sekar, Lead Author, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University of Liverpool and Liverpool Women’s NHS Foundation Trust, agrees:
“Ensuring equitable access to high-quality early pregnancy care should be a priority. Strengthening Early Pregnancy Assessment Units, improving care pathways and investing in prevention could help improve outcomes and reduce inequalities.”
On future research priorities, Sekar added:
“Pregnancy loss has historically been overlooked and underfunded, despite affecting a large number of women and families. We believe it should be recognised as a major women’s health research priority. The next phase of research should focus on understanding causes, improving care, reducing inequalities and preventing avoidable pregnancy loss wherever possible.”
This research is a timely reminder that, while important progress is being made, there is still much more to do. Alongside welcoming the success of our Leave for Every Loss campaign and the Government’s commitment to introduce statutory bereavement leave for pregnancy loss before 24 weeks, Miscarriage UK will continue working with Government, the NHS and healthcare professionals to improve care across the entire pregnancy loss pathway.
If you have been affected by pregnancy loss, Miscarriage UK’s support services are here for you. You can access confidential information and support through our helpline, live chat, online resources and peer support services.