Although miscarriages are common, some women are at a higher risk of experiencing them than others. While there are a number of factors that can contribute to miscarriages, we will discuss the top six high-risk factors below.
Advanced Age
A woman’s age is one of the most significant risk factors for miscarriage. Women who become pregnant after the age of 35 face a higher risk of miscarriage than younger women.
This is because as a woman ages, the quality of her eggs declines, making it more difficult for her to conceive and increasing the likelihood of a miscarriage.
Chronic Diseases
Women who suffer from chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and autoimmune diseases are at a higher risk of experiencing miscarriages.
These conditions can affect the health of the mother and the fetus, making it more difficult for the fetus to thrive and increasing the risk of a miscarriage.
Hormonal Imbalances
Hormonal imbalances can also increase the risk of miscarriage. Women who have low progesterone levels, for example, are more likely to experience a miscarriage.
Hormonal imbalances can also lead to other complications such as gestational diabetes and preeclampsia, which can also increase the risk of a miscarriage.
Poor Lifestyle Habits
Smoking, alcohol consumption, and drug use can all contribute to an increased risk of miscarriage. These habits can affect the health of the mother and the fetus, making it more difficult for the fetus to thrive and increasing the risk of a miscarriage.
Women who have poor diets and who do not get enough exercise are also at a higher risk of experiencing a miscarriage.
Previous Miscarriage
Women who have experienced a miscarriage in the past are at a higher risk of experiencing another one. In fact, women who have had two or more consecutive miscarriages are diagnosed with recurrent miscarriage.
These women should receive specialized care from a reproductive specialist as the underlying cause of the recurrent miscarriages might be identified and treated.
Genetic Factors
Some genetic factors can also increase the risk of miscarriage. Women who have chromosomal abnormalities, for example, are more likely to experience a miscarriage.
Genetic factors can also lead to other complications such as birth defects, which can further increase the risk of a miscarriage.