The termination of pregnancy before the 20th week is referred to as a miscarriage. Unfortunately, it is a quite common occurrence, with approximately one in eight women experiencing a miscarriage. The primary symptom is vaginal bleeding, which may be accompanied by cramps or pelvic pain in the lower abdomen. While there can be various reasons for a miscarriage, often, no single cause can be identified. It is believed that the majority of miscarriages result from chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus.
Main causes of miscarriage include:
Chromosomal abnormalities
Maternal health conditions (hormonal disorders, thyroid problems, infections, uterine-cervical issues)
Factors such as age, previous miscarriages, obesity, chronic illnesses, smoking, alcohol and substance use, and invasive prenatal tests
While many miscarriages cannot be prevented, there are measures that can be taken to reduce the risk. Avoiding smoking, alcohol, and substance use is crucial. Additionally, maintaining a balanced weight and adopting a healthy diet can help reduce the risk of infection and minimize the risk of miscarriage.
If you experience symptoms of a miscarriage, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly. An ultrasound examination can determine whether a miscarriage has occurred.
Recurrent miscarriages: Experiencing one miscarriage can be challenging for an expectant mother, but going through it multiple times can become a nightmare. Recurrent miscarriage is defined as the occurrence of one or more pregnancy losses. While the cause of 40% of recurrent miscarriages is unknown, one underlying factor can be chromosomal abnormalities. In such cases, overcoming the problem is possible by placing a selected healthy embryo into the mother's uterus.
Genetic issues are a primary factor contributing to recurrent miscarriages. Studies indicate that miscarriages occurring in the first three months of pregnancy are often linked to genetic anomalies. Abnormal hormone levels, structural abnormalities in the uterus, infections, environmental factors such as tobacco, alcohol, coffee, and pollution, and immunological problems preventing the protection of the embryo by the mother are among the leading causes of recurrent miscarriages.
Some women may show symptoms before a miscarriage, while others may not exhibit any signs. Pre-miscarriage symptoms may include dark vaginal discharge, a decrease in the feeling of fullness in the breasts, and a reduction in fetal movements and heartbeats. Women experiencing recurrent miscarriage issues may undergo hormonal, structural, genetic, and immunological tests to identify the underlying causes and prevent future occurrences.
This article is for informational purposes only. Consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended when needed.