If You’re Pregnant, Here’s What You Should Know About the Medical Procedures That Could Save Your Life
www.propublica.org
Women experiencing pregnancy loss in states with abortion bans told us they wished they had known what to expect and how to advocate for themselves. We created this guide for anyone who finds themselves in the same position.

We (ProPublica) heard the same story again and again this year:

The women were having miscarriages. They were bleeding and in pain.

They needed a medical procedure to clear their uterus, but their doctors delayed it or didn’t even counsel them about it. Our yearlong investigation found that abortion laws are affecting how physicians treat pregnancy loss and other complications because the procedures used in these cases are also used for abortions.

We wrote it in consultation with dozens of doctors, including those who hold positions at leading medical organizations and those who regularly treat patients who are miscarrying.

This guide does not provide medical or legal advice. We encourage you to seek out other reliable resources and consult with experts you trust.

In this article:

  • What Is a Miscarriage?
  • What Are the Treatment Options?
  • What Is a D&C?
  • What Is a D&E?
  • How Have D&Cs and D&Es Been Affected by Abortion Bans?
  • How to Find Doctors Who Will Offer All Options
  • How to Prepare for Emergencies
  • How to Choose a Hospital
  • What to Do if You’re Experiencing Signs of a Miscarriage
  • What to Do if You Aren’t Getting Care You Need