London: A new study suggests that early intervention could significantly improve miscarriage prevention, with more than 10,000 pregnancy losses potentially avoided each year in the UK.
Research by Tommy’s found that offering tests and support after a first miscarriage could help identify underlying health issues sooner and improve outcomes in future pregnancies.
Currently, the NHS typically provides detailed testing only after a third miscarriage. However, researchers argue that this approach leaves many women without early support and delays potential treatment.
The study tested a “graded model of care,” where women receive increasing levels of support after each miscarriage. Under this system, patients would be offered specialist consultations and targeted care following their first loss.
Additional interventions could include hormone treatments, such as progesterone, for women experiencing early pregnancy complications. Blood tests for conditions like anaemia and thyroid disorders would also be introduced earlier in the process.
According to Professor Arri Coomarasamy, the model could prevent approximately 10,075 miscarriages annually if implemented nationwide. The findings showed that 86% of women receiving early intervention had risk factors identified, compared to 58% under standard care. Women in the early-care group also experienced a lower risk of repeated pregnancy loss.
The research also highlighted that one in five women with two previous miscarriages had treatable conditions such as thyroid issues or anaemia, problems that would not typically be detected under current guidelines.
Experts say the approach could not only improve miscarriage prevention but also reduce the emotional and physical impact on families. Kath Abrahams described the findings as a strong case for change, noting that earlier support is both effective and practical for healthcare systems.
The study also suggests that implementing the model could save the NHS more than £40 million within a year by reducing complications and repeat treatments. Scotland has already adopted elements of this approach, while policymakers in England, Wales and Northern Ireland are considering similar changes.
The UK government has pledged to review miscarriage support as part of its wider women’s health strategy. Health officials have described the research as important evidence that could shape future policy decisions.
The findings underline the need for earlier diagnosis and intervention, with miscarriage prevention becoming a growing priority in healthcare planning.
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