Miscarriage
A miscarriage, medically known as a spontaneous abortion, is the unexpected loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week. It is a very common occurrence, affecting roughly 10% to 20% of known pregnancies, though the actual number may be higher as many happen before a person even realizes they are pregnant.
It is important to know that in the vast majority of cases, a miscarriage is not caused by anything the pregnant person did or did not do (such as exercise, working).
Common Causes:
The cause of a miscarriage often depends on when it occurs during the pregnancy.
1. Chromosomal Abnormalities (Most Common):
About 50% of all miscarriages in the first trimester happen because the embryo has the "wrong" number of chromosomes.
• How it happens: During conception, the egg and sperm combine their DNA. Sometimes, an error occurs, and the embryo ends up with extra or missing chromosomes.
• Result: This prevents the baby from developing normally. These are usually one-time "flukes" and do not mean there is a long-term fertility issue.
2. Maternal Health Conditions:
Certain underlying health issues can increase the risk, especially if they are not well-managed:
• Uncontrolled Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can be harmful to a developing fetus.
• Thyroid Disease: Both overactive and underactive thyroids can cause complications.
• Hormonal Issues: Conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or low progesterone levels.
• Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions like Lupus or Antiphospholipid Syndrome (which causes blood clots).
3. Uterine or Cervical Issues:
Physical abnormalities in the reproductive organs can sometimes lead to loss, typically in the second trimester:
• Uterine Fibroids: Non-cancerous growths that may interfere with the baby's space or blood supply.
• Abnormally Shaped Uterus: Such as a uterine septum (a wall of tissue dividing the womb).
• Cervical Insufficiency: When the cervix is "weak" and begins to open too early under the weight of the growing pregnancy.
4. Lifestyle and Environmental Factors:
While routine activities are safe, certain factors do increase risk:
• Age: The risk increases significantly after age 35 and even more so after 40.
• Smoking, Alcohol, and Drugs: These substances can interfere with fetal development.
• Caffeine: Very high intake (generally more than 200mg/day) has been linked to higher risks.