What is a miscarriage?
A miscarriage, also known as a spontaneous abortion, refers to the loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week of gestation. It is a common occurrence, affecting about 10-20% of all pregnancies. Most miscarriages happen in the first trimester of pregnancy, before the woman even knows she is pregnant.
What causes a miscarriage?
The most common cause of miscarriage is chromosomal abnormalities.
Chromosomal abnormalities are changes in the number or structure of chromosomes. Chromosomes are the structures that contain genes. Genes are the instructions that tell the body how to grow and develop.
Other causes of miscarriage include:
- Infections
- Medical conditions, such as diabetes or thyroid problems
- Immune system problems
- Environmental toxins
- Lifestyle factors, such as smoking or drinking alcohol
What are symptoms of a miscarriage?
The most common symptoms of miscarriage are:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Cramping
- Pain in the lower back or abdomen
- Expulsion of tissue from the vagina
How is a miscarriage treated?
There is no specific treatment for miscarriage. The body will usually expel the pregnancy tissue on its own. If the body does not expel the tissue on its own, the doctor may recommend a procedure called a dilation and curettage (D&C). A D&C is a minor surgical procedure that removes the tissue from the uterus.
Most women recover physically from miscarriage within a few weeks. However, the emotional recovery can take longer. It is important to allow yourself time to grieve and to seek support from a professional or your loved ones.
How can I prevent a miscarriage?
There is no way to completely prevent miscarriage. However, there are things you can do to reduce your risk, such as:
- Quitting smoking
- Avoiding alcohol
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Eating a healthy diet
- Exercising regularly
- Managing any medical conditions you have
If you have any questions or concerns about miscarriage, please talk to your doctor.