Miscarriage is the loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week. It happens in around 10 to 20 percent of all pregnancies, and the risk of miscarriage increases with age.

While some miscarriages cannot be prevented, there are some unforeseen risks that you need to know about.

1. Chromosomal Abnormalities

Chromosomal abnormalities are the most common cause of miscarriage. This happens when the baby gets an extra or missing chromosome, which affects their development.

Women who are over 35 years old have a higher risk of having a baby with a chromosomal abnormality, but it can happen to anyone.

2. Chronic Health Conditions

Having a chronic health condition can increase the risk of miscarriage. These conditions include diabetes, high blood pressure, thyroid disorders, and autoimmune diseases.

If you have any of these conditions, it is important to manage them carefully during pregnancy.

3. Infections

Infections can also increase the risk of miscarriage. Some infections that can cause miscarriage include rubella, cytomegalovirus (CMV), toxoplasmosis, and syphilis.

It is important to practice good hygiene and get vaccinated before getting pregnant to prevent these infections.

4. Lifestyle Factors

Your lifestyle choices can also affect your risk of miscarriage. Smoking, drinking alcohol, and using drugs during pregnancy can increase the risk of miscarriage.

It is important to avoid these substances during pregnancy and to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

5. Environmental Factors

Exposure to certain environmental factors can also increase the risk of miscarriage. These factors include exposure to lead, arsenic, and other toxic substances.

If you work in an environment that exposes you to these substances, it is important to take precautions to protect yourself during pregnancy.

6. Physical Trauma

Physical trauma can also cause miscarriage. This includes falls, car accidents, and other injuries. If you experience any physical trauma during pregnancy, it is important to seek medical attention right away.

7. Multiple Pregnancies

Having multiple pregnancies, such as twins or triplets, can increase the risk of miscarriage. This is because the uterus may not be able to support multiple babies.

If you are pregnant with multiples, your healthcare provider will monitor your pregnancy closely to help reduce the risk of miscarriage.

8. Previous Miscarriage

Having a previous miscarriage can increase the risk of miscarriage in future pregnancies. Women who have had two or more miscarriages may have an underlying condition that needs to be addressed before getting pregnant again.

9. Advanced Maternal Age

As mentioned earlier, the risk of miscarriage increases with age. Women who are over the age of 35 have a higher risk of miscarriage compared to younger women.

This is because the quality of eggs decreases with age, which can affect the development of the fetus.

10. Stress

While stress is not a direct cause of miscarriage, it can affect your overall health and increase the risk of complications during pregnancy.

It is important to manage stress during pregnancy by practicing relaxation techniques, getting enough sleep, and seeking support from friends and family.

Conclusion

Miscarriage is a common occurrence, but there are some unforeseen risks that you need to know about.

Chromosomal abnormalities, chronic health conditions, infections, lifestyle factors, environmental factors, physical trauma, multiple pregnancies, previous miscarriage, advanced maternal age, and stress can all increase the risk of miscarriage. It is important to take steps to reduce your risk and to seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of miscarriage.