Facts about miscarriage

Miscarriage is probably the most dreaded word for most expecting moms! It is an unfortunate and terrible situation, and one which can leave you traumatized. Alarmingly, most young couples remain blissfully unaware of the rising number of miscarriages in modern society.

If you are planning to conceive a baby or expecting one, you need to know all about the risk factors of miscarriage and what you can do to avoid it. So, here is a detailed overview of miscarriage, what causes it, and what you can do about it. Read on to learn more:

What Is Miscarriage?

Medical experts define miscarriage as the sudden loss of the embryo or fetus before the 20th week of pregnancy. It is also called spontaneous abortion. Most people think that miscarriages are extremely rare. But, studies show that almost 10 to 20% of all known pregnancies end in miscarriage.

Important Facts About Miscarriage:

Here are some important facts about miscarriage:

• Most miscarriages occur because of sudden fetal death due to abnormalities.

• Some causes of miscarriage include hormonal factors, immune problems, over exposure to radiation, illness of mother and infection.

• Exercise and intercourse never cause an early miscarriage.

• The risk of miscarriage for elder women above 35 years of age is higher than the younger ones.

• Women with recurrent miscarriages have to undergo medical intervention, as suggested by gynecologists.

• Most miscarriages occur before the 13th week of pregnancy.

• Women who already went through two miscarriages consecutively have higher risks of having another miscarriage.

• The initial symptoms of miscarriage are stomach cramps (similar to menstrual pain) and a small percentage of bleeding.

• Women experiencing miscarriage will experience nausea, painful cramps, heavy bleeding and blood clots.

• Women with recurrent miscarriages have to undergo extensive medical examination including blood tests to diagnose genetic problems and hormonal levels.

• The doctor tests the uterus for infections and examines the structure of the uterus using a CAT scan or MRI.

• Alcohol, smoking, and intake of certain medications increase the risk of miscarriage.

• Medications that treat cancer, malaria and skin acne elevate the chances of miscarriage in women.

• Women, who recently went through a miscarriage, need to undergo a dilatation and curettage (D & C) immediately after her fetal death. The procedure removes any remnants from the uterus.

• Women need to take sufficient rest to feel better physically and emotionally.