Miscarriage bleeding duration varies but generally follows this pattern:
- The heaviest bleeding usually lasts about 3 to 5 hours once heavy bleeding begins
- Most tissue passes within 2 to 4 hours after cramping and bleeding start, with cramping typically stopping within a day
- Light bleeding or spotting can continue for 4 to 6 weeks after the miscarriage
- Bleeding may last up to 2 to 3 weeks in total, sometimes on and off, with the heaviest bleeding occurring early on and lighter spotting continuing afterward
- In some cases, bleeding can last up to 4 weeks, especially if tissue takes longer to pass naturally
- If bleeding and cramping persist beyond 2 weeks, or if heavy bleeding continues, medical evaluation is advised to check for retained tissue or infection
In summary, while the most intense bleeding is usually over within a few hours, lighter bleeding or spotting can last several weeks, commonly 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the individual situation and how the miscarriage progresses naturally or with medical intervention