Intrauterine pregnancy of uncertain viability: Frequently asked questions

What does this mean for me?

It means the pregnancy has been seen within the womb (uterus) on ultrasound scan, but a tiny baby (embryo) was not seen, or the tiny baby was seen but no heartbeat.

Why is this happening to me?

There are two possible reasons:

• This can be a completely normal finding in a very early pregnancy. A urine pregnancy test can be positive as early as 5 days before you miss your next period. An Intrauterine pregnancy of uncertain viability (IPUV) is also possible if your periods are irregular, you have recently stopped contraception, or you were recently pregnant.
• It may also be that the pregnancy is not going to develop as expected, unfortunately. This is more likely if the size of the pregnancy does not match the number of weeks of your pregnancy. This may also be more likely if you develop bleeding in early pregnancy.

What happens next?

A repeat ultrasound scan in one to two weeks is offered to confirm if a tiny baby (embryo) with a heartbeat can be seen. We know this will be an anxious period of waiting but this time interval is needed to allow the pregnancy to develop. If the pregnancy does not develop as expected, there is the possibility you may be diagnosed with a miscarriage at rescan. But if we confirm at rescan your baby is developing normally and a heartbeat is seen, you should request further pregnancy (antenatal) care by completing a self-referral form for maternity care or speak to your GP about your pregnancy, if not done already.

What worrying signs should I look out for?

Vaginal bleeding in early pregnancy is common. Many women with bleeding go on to have a successful pregnancy without complication. Bleeding does increase your risk of miscarriage and may be one of the first signs of this. Symptoms of miscarriage include heavy bleeding with clots, as well as lower tummy (abdominal) cramps or contraction like pain. If you are concerned you should call your local early pregnancy unit for advice or attend your local emergency department (A&E). If the bleeding becomes severe (having to change a pad every hour or passing large clots), severe pain that is not controlled with pain relief, or you have a fever, then you should attend your nearest A&E.

What should I do if I think I am miscarrying?

Sadly, miscarriages are common and there is a risk this may happen before the next ultrasound scan. This is unlikely to be related to anything you have done or not done but unfortunately it is not possible to prevent a miscarriage at this stage. You can take pain relief such as paracetamol and codeine to help ease any pain. If you have concerns about miscarrying or managing your emotions at this difficult time of uncertainty, then you should call your local Early Pregnancy Unit (EPU) to seek advice or attend A&E if you feel unwell.