Women in Northern Ireland qualify for specialist NHS care for early pregnancy losses only after three miscarriages. A study by Tommy’s National Centre for Miscarriage Research and Birmingham Women’s Hospital examined 406 women and found that a graded model of care after one miscarriage reduces the risk of future losses by 4%.

This model would prevent 10,075 miscarriages annually across the UK. The approach provides nurse-led advice after the first loss on factors like vitamin D levels, folic acid, alcohol and caffeine. Women receiving it had a 47% higher chance of identifying and addressing pregnancy risks compared to standard care.

Among women with two miscarriages under the model, one in five showed thyroid dysfunction or anaemia. Tommy’s, the charity behind the study, promotes this tiered care, already in place in Scotland, for rollout across the UK including Northern Ireland.

Tommy’s chief executive Kath Abrahams stated that early support after one miscarriage cuts future risks, aids health outcomes and requires minimal extra NHS effort. Women’s health minister Gillian Merron welcomed the findings and pledged review within efforts for better NHS maternity support.