Abstract
First trimester miscarriage is common, occurring in approximately 6.4-12.0% of pregnancies. Women who experience first trimester miscarriage will often have no other significant health conditions and the healthcare professional they most frequently visit could be their dentist or dental care professional. For this reason, it is important that the dental team is aware of the management of first trimester miscarriage in order to allow for a better understanding of the patient's experience and situation. The choice of language used by healthcare professionals with patients who are grieving is also important to ensure effective and open communication.
This article aims to provide the dental team with knowledge of first trimester miscarriage, how the effects of this can be relevant within the dental setting, and how to communicate effectively and appropriately with patients who have experienced this traumatic event.
Key points
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First trimester miscarriage is common, occurring in approximately 6.4-12% of all pregnancies.
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First trimester miscarriage can have significant physical and psychological effects on patients, the implications of which should be recognised from a dental perspective.
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When communicating with patients who have recently miscarried, the dental team has a role to play in ensuring that language is supportive and appropriate for the individual patient's needs.
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Barratt, O., Lee, R. & Curtin, C. First trimester miscarriage: patient care considerations for the dental team. Br Dent J 229, 527–531 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41415-020-2224-0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41415-020-2224-0
