It is also known as spontaneous abortion and is the loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week. It is a common occurrence, with estimates suggesting that around 10-20% of known pregnancies end in miscarriage, though the actual rate could be higher due to early miscarriages often going unnoticed.
Causes
It occurs due to chromosomal abnormalities in the foetus, often arising from errors in cell division during embryo formation.
Risk
- Maternal age (particularly over 35)
- Diabetes
- Thyroid disorders
- Uterine abnormalities
- Hormonal imbalances
- Infections
- Immune disorders, and
- Lifestyle factors like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, or drug use.
Symptoms
- Symptoms of miscarriage can vary but commonly include vaginal bleeding, which may be accompanied by abdominal pain or cramping.
- Other signs may include passing tissue or clots from the vagina, fluid or tissue passing from the cervix, and a decrease in pregnancy symptoms such as breast tenderness or morning sickness.
Diagnosis
- Physical examination
- Ultrasound
- Blood tests to measure hormone levels such as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG).
- Ultrasound can confirm the presence of foetal heartbeat and gestational age, helping to determine if a miscarriage has occurred.
Treatment
Treatment options for miscarriage depend on several factors, including the stage of pregnancy, the presence of complications, and the woman’s preferences.
In cases of early miscarriage where there are no complications and all foetal tissue is expelled naturally, no specific treatment may be necessary other than monitoring for signs of infection.
In cases of incomplete miscarriage or missed miscarriage (where the foetus has stopped developing but has not been expelled), options may include expectant management, medication to help expel remaining tissue, or surgical procedures such as dilation and curettage (D&C) or vacuum aspiration.
Prevention
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate hydration.
- Avoid smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and illicit drug use.
- Manage chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or thyroid disorders under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
- Take prenatal vitamins containing folic acid before and during pregnancy.
- Seek prenatal care early in pregnancy and follow healthcare provider recommendations for prenatal screenings and tests.
- Avoid exposure to harmful substances or environmental toxins.
- Manage stress through relaxation techniques, counselling, or support groups.
- Discuss any concerns about previous miscarriages or risk factors with a doctor for personalized guidance and management.
- If experiencing recurrent miscarriages or underlying medical conditions, consult with a fertility specialist or reproductive endocrinologist for further evaluation and potential treatment options.
