Pregnancy loss in Australia: a data scoping study
This Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) scoping study examines what is currently known about pregnancy loss before 20 weeks’ gestation in Australia and, importantly, where significant gaps remain in national data. Drawing on a review of existing evidence and data sources, new analysis of national administrative data, and consultation with experts and stakeholders, the report assesses Australia’s capacity to understand the prevalence, experiences and care associated with pregnancy loss.
The report finds that pregnancy loss is common, with available survey data suggesting that an estimated 30% to 37% of Australian women who have ever been pregnant have experienced at least one pregnancy loss before 20 weeks. Despite this, Australia has no routine or nationally consistent reporting of pregnancy loss before 20 weeks’ gestation. Existing hospital, perinatal, Medicare and other data sources provide only a partial picture, particularly because pregnancy losses managed in primary care, community settings or without health service contact may not be captured.
The study identifies critical gaps in data on the prevalence of pregnancy loss, access to and quality of care, the impacts of pregnancy loss, and pregnancy loss health literacy. It recommends improving existing national data and developing new approaches to collection, including consideration of a National Pregnancy Loss Register. Better national data would support evidence-based policy, service planning and improvements in care, while increasing visibility of pregnancy loss and the unmet needs of people affected by it.
Authors: Sayler Allen, Deanna Eldridge, Quinn Guy, Kate Johnston-Ataata, Nafiseh Khalaj, Australian Institute of Health and Welfare Sexual and Reproductive Health Unit
Publication date: 29 July 2026
Publication: Pregnancy loss in Australia: a data scoping study, Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, Australian Government
Catalogue number: PER 129
Link to report: https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/sexual-reproductive-health/pregnancy-loss-data-scoping-study/contents/about