Loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week is termed miscarriage. Affecting 10-15% of confirmed pregnancies, it often occurs due to natural causes like chromosomal abnormalities, hormonal imbalances, or maternal health issues.
Recognizing miscarriage symptoms is crucial. Common signs include vaginal bleeding, cramps, blood clots, and reduced pregnancy symptoms like nausea or breast tenderness.
Here are some of the signs of early miscarriage to watch for:
A threatened miscarriage or threatened abortion refers to symptoms that suggest a possible pregnancy loss but that's not the case necessarily. These may include vaginal bleeding or mild abdominal cramps during early pregnancy. Despite these symptoms, the foetus often remains viable, and timely medical care can help manage the situation.
A missed abortion happens when the foetus stops developing without symptoms like bleeding or cramping appearing immediately. On the other hand, a threatened abortion involves signs like vaginal bleeding or abdominal cramps. Despite these symptoms, the pregnancy remains viable and may continue with proper care.
Miscarriages can occur for various reasons including chromosomal abnormalities, maternal health issues, uterine problems, infections, dietary concerns and lifestyle factors.
Chromosomal abnormalities, often out of the parent's control, account for up to 50-60% of cases. These occur when the foetus has an incorrect number of chromosomes, leading to developmental issues.
Maternal health conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, and hormonal imbalances can increase the risk of miscarriage. Uterine issues such as fibroids or structural abnormalities can also hinder fetal development.
Certain foods such as unripe papaya and pineapple, and excessive consumption of herbs such as fenugreek or asafoetida may trigger uterine contractions or hormonal changes. Always consult your doctor about safe dietary choices.
Many women worry about everyday activities or habits leading to miscarriage, but it’s important to separate facts from myths. Here are some common misconceptions clarified:
First 6 months
Give your baby the best nutrition by breastfeeding exclusively during the first six months
Postpartum care
Schedule a follow-up visit to monitor your vitals, wound care, exercises and diet guidance
Early warning
Spotting or bleeding can be an early sign of miscarriage, watch out for signs to seek help
Rest up
Catch up on sleep and get as much rest as you can when your baby is sleeping
Doctor’s guidance
During any bleeding episodes or medicine intake always follow your doctor's guidance.
Miscarriage bleeding varies based on your pregnancy stage. It may begin as spotting and progress to heavier miscarriage blood with clots. Always consult your doctor if in doubt.
Taking the right precautions during early pregnancy can significantly reduce the risk of miscarriage. Here are some key steps to follow for a safe and healthy pregnancy:
If you are concerned about miscarriage, it’s important to consult your doctor for personalised advice. They may recommend:
The D&C procedure for miscarriage is performed to remove pregnancy tissue and clean the uterus. Bleeding typically lasts 1-2 weeks after the procedure, though it may vary. To support recovery, focus on rest, hydration, and a healthy diet.
Miscarriage risk is highest in the first 8 weeks. After detecting a fetal heartbeat, the risk drops significantly and decreases further after 12 weeks.
It is a genetic screening used to identify chromosomal abnormalities. It is especially recommended after recurrent miscarriages to determine if genetic issues are involved.
For most women, with proper care and guidance, pregnancy after miscarriage is still possible. Here's what you need to know:
FAQs
Most miscarriages occur within the first 8–10 weeks of pregnancy, during the critical period when the baby’s organs are developing. Many of these are due to chromosomal abnormalities that prevent proper development.
To lower the risk of miscarriage, focus on prenatal care, a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking, alcohol, and excessive caffeine. Regular medical check-ups and managing chronic conditions can also help ensure a healthy pregnancy.
Heavy bleeding with clots, severe cramping, and the loss of pregnancy symptoms may indicate a miscarriage. However, only a doctor can confirm it through medical tests or an ultrasound. So seeking medical advice is essential.
Waiting three months after a miscarriage allows your body to recover fully and ensures your uterine lining is healthy. It also provides time to address any health concerns and prepare emotionally for a new pregnancy.
Most people wait until after the 12-week mark, as the risk of miscarriage decreases significantly by then. This timing also allows for initial medical tests and greater confidence in sharing the news.
