Normal pregnancy lasts 40 weeks. Miscarriage is a pregnancy
that ends spontaneously or naturally before 20 weeks and is
known as early pregnancy loss. Medically, Miscarriage is also
known as spontaneous Abortion.
However, Miscarriage should not be confused with Stillbirth.
The loss of a Fetus after the 20th week of pregnancy is called
a Stillbirth. About 15–20% of pregnancies result in miscarriages.
Most miscarriages occur in the first 13 weeks of pregnancy.
Some of them happen before a woman misses a menstrual period
or is not even aware that she is pregnant.
Why do miscarriages occur?
The cause of Miscarriage often is not known. The most common
causes are:
1) Genetic abnormality is the most common cause for miscarriages.
Miscarriage can occur when a fertilized egg fails to attach to
the wall of the Uterus properly or may attach itself in the wrong place.
The Immune System of some women may reject the Placenta and
destroy it instead of letting it grow in the Uterus. However,
medications can help control this.
In some cases of miscarriage, bacterial infections in the Uterus may be
the cause. Certain pre-existing diseases or disorders such as uncontrolled
Diabetes and Thyroid abnormalities in the pregnant woman can lead
to Miscarriage.
Abnormalities in the Uterus such as Fibroid Tumors and other
structural problems of the Uterus can stop a Fetus from implanting properly.
The mother may have an abnormality of the Uterus or a weak Cervix.
Alcohol, smoking and some medications may increase the risk of Miscarriage.
For example, medication that is usually taken to treat Acne is associated
with Miscarriage.
The risk of Miscarriage is higher for women over 35 years of age.
Signs and symptoms of miscarriage:
The first sign of Miscarriage is usually stomach cramps. The pain felt
is similar to menstrual pain. A small amount of bleeding can also occur.
Women who have a Miscarriage may also experience heavy bleeding,
blood clots, nausea and painful cramps.
Warning signs of Miscarriage
Inform your doctor if you have any of the following:
1) Spotting or bleeding without pain
2) Heavy or persistent bleeding with abdominal pain or cramping
Fluid gushing from your Vagina without pain or bleeding
If you have passed fetal tissue
After a miscarriage :
Many miscarriages do not occur fully or completely. Some Placenta
remains inside the Uterus. Your doctor will advise treatment accordingly.
The remaining Placenta and other tissue are removed by a procedure
called dilatation and Curettage (D&C).
Emotional and medical support:
Remember, Miscarriage can affect anyone, so do not blame yourself.
Get adequate rest to recover physically and emotionally.
Grieving can actually help you accept this painful loss and go
on with your life. Try to maintain an open communication with family,
friends and your doctor during this time.
The happy news is that, nature can give you a second chance.
Most women who have miscarriages have a high chance of having
a healthy baby when they become pregnant for a second time.
Yes, it is possible to get pregnant in just a few weeks after
a Miscarriage. However, it is advisable to at least have one menstrual
period before trying to get pregnant again. Your doctor can give
you guidance accordingly.
