I was diagnosed with MMC at 8 weeks and 3 days — the baby’s heartbeat had sadly stopped at 7 weeks and 2 days. After discussing options, I chose surgical management. I’d been through it once before, six years ago, and remembered it as being straightforward and manageable.
This time, though, the earliest slot my hospital could offer was in 3 weeks — and that uncertainty was scary. I was worried my body might miscarry naturally before then. Thankfully, I was able to arrange the procedure at a different hospital, 30 miles away.
And here’s my big advice: ask what type of ward you’ll be on.
I ended up on an emergency ward, which meant I was triaged alongside critical, life-threatening cases. My slot kept getting pushed back. On the first day, I waited 10 hours — without food or drink — and wasn’t seen. I returned the next day, waited another 10 hours… and finally had the surgery. It was a long, draining process.
But the staff were so kind, and that made a huge difference. They saw me, they cared, they were gentle — and in that moment, it meant everything.
The waiting around and not knowing was honestly the worst part. But once it was done, I was taken to recovery and handed the famous tea and biscuits (they really do taste amazing in that moment). I had minimal bleeding, and just 2–3 hours after surgery, I felt slight discomfort in my uterus and some lower back pain, but otherwise okay. Just tired — emotionally and physically.
I’ve cried. I’m sure I’ll be grieving. This experience has been so exhausting mentally….
If you’re going through this now — please know: you’ll be okay.
You are stronger than you think.
Be kind to yourself. You’re doing the best you can.
Sending love to anyone walking this path right now. 💛