Pregnancy can be an exciting time for couples, but it also comes with some risks. One of the biggest risks is miscarriage, which happens when a pregnancy ends on its own before the 20th week.

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), about 10% of all known pregnancies end in miscarriage. However, the actual number is likely much higher, as many miscarriages happen before women even know they are pregnant.

Causes of Miscarriage

There are many reasons that a pregnancy may end in miscarriage. Some of the most common causes include:.

Chromosomal abnormalities: These occur when there are too many or too few chromosomes in the embryo, which prevents it from developing normally.
Hormonal problems: Imbalances in hormones such as progesterone can cause a miscarriage.
Maternal health issues: Health problems such as uncontrolled diabetes, thyroid issues, or infections can increase the risk of miscarriage.
Lifestyle factors: Smoking, drinking alcohol, or using drugs during pregnancy can increase the risk of miscarriage.
Uterine abnormalities: Abnormalities in the uterus, such as fibroids or septums, can increase the risk of miscarriage.

Symptoms of Miscarriage

The symptoms of miscarriage can vary from woman to woman, but some common signs include:.

Vaginal bleeding or spotting
Cramping or pain in the lower abdomen or back
Passing tissue or clots from the vagina
Loss of pregnancy symptoms, such as nausea or breast tenderness

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider right away. They may recommend an ultrasound or other tests to determine if a miscarriage has occurred.

Reducing the Risk of Miscarriage

While some causes of miscarriage are beyond our control, there are some steps women can take to reduce their risk:.

Quit smoking, drinking alcohol, and using drugs before trying to conceive
Get regular check-ups with a healthcare provider and manage any underlying health conditions
Take a prenatal vitamin with folic acid before and during pregnancy
Avoid certain foods that may be contaminated with bacteria or chemicals, such as raw or undercooked meat or fish

If a woman has experienced one or more miscarriages, her healthcare provider may recommend additional testing or treatment to identify any underlying issues and improve her chances of having a healthy pregnancy.

Dealing with the Emotional Impact of Miscarriage

A miscarriage can be a devastating experience for couples, and it’s important to take the time to grieve and heal both physically and emotionally. Counseling or support groups can be helpful for those dealing with the loss of a pregnancy.

It’s also important to remember that most women who experience a miscarriage go on to have successful pregnancies in the future.

Conclusion

Pregnancy and childbirth are natural processes that come with risks. While miscarriage is a common experience for many women, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk.

If you suspect that you may be experiencing a miscarriage, contact your healthcare provider right away for evaluation and treatment. Remember to take the time to heal emotionally and seek support if needed.