Pregnancy Loss: Reasons & Signs
In the world of pregnancies, early miscarriage is a regrettably common occurrence. Around 15% of all pregnancies result in a loss prior to 24 weeks gestation, amounting to approximately 23 million losses annually worldwide.
Recognising Early Miscarriage
Early miscarriage often presents with distinct symptoms. Vaginal bleeding or spotting, lower abdominal pain or cramping, passing tissue or clots vaginally, and a sudden decrease in pregnancy symptoms such as nausea or breast tenderness are common signs. However, it's important to note that these symptoms can vary depending on the type of miscarriage.
A specific type called a 'missed miscarriage' (where the fetus stops developing but is not immediately expelled) is estimated to occur in about 2% of pregnancies between 10 and 14 weeks.
Factors Contributing to Early Miscarriage
Chromosomal abnormalities in the embryo are a leading cause of early miscarriage. Additionally, low levels of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), indicating diminished ovarian reserve, have been linked to higher miscarriage risk, especially in women under 35.
Unintended pregnancies, associated with higher stress and unhealthy behaviours, increase the risk of miscarriage. Reduced access to antenatal care also correlates with higher miscarriage odds. Young maternal age, especially under 14 years, may increase the risk, though this varies by population.
Minimising the Risk of Early Miscarriage
Women can take steps to minimise the risk of miscarriage. Maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding abdominal trauma, and avoiding alcohol, drugs, and caffeine are crucial. Women in their early forties have a higher susceptibility to miscarriage due to higher chances of producing chromosomally abnormal eggs.
High levels of stress may increase the risk of having an early miscarriage. A study shows that stress-induced hormones called CRH and urocortin are found at higher levels among women who have had multiple miscarriages compared to women with single miscarriages.
Post-Miscarriage Care
After a miscarriage, it's advisable to go to the doctor to ensure that the tissue has passed and to avoid complications. Medication or suction curettage may be used to help pass the tissue after a miscarriage. A quantitative HCG blood test is used to measure human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) hormone levels, which is produced during pregnancy, for diagnosing a miscarriage.
Preventing Future Miscarriages
Talking about feelings after a miscarriage is important, as it can be emotionally traumatizing. Adequate care after a miscarriage and taking a few months to let the body recover strength is important for a successful future pregnancy.
It's estimated that as much as 50% of pregnancies may be terminated before the first two weeks. Early miscarriage occurs during the first trimester of pregnancy, typically between the first 12 weeks of pregnancy confirmation. Severe back pain may be associated with a possible miscarriage, but it could also be due to the expanding uterus straining the back.
The Global Impact of Early Miscarriage
It is estimated that 10-20% of all positive pregnancy tests end up in a miscarriage. Understanding the causes, signs, and prevention of early miscarriage can help women make informed decisions about their health and pregnancy. With proper care and awareness, the impact of early miscarriage can be minimised.
- Proper parenting in the case of pregnancy is crucial, as understanding the signs of early miscarriage, like vaginal bleeding or sudden decreases in pregnancy symptoms, can help women seek necessary help promptly.
- Science and healthcare fields are continually working to reduce the high rate of early miscarriages, with ongoing research focusing on factors such as chromosomal abnormalities, low AMH levels, and the impact of stress on sexual and mental health during pregnancy.
- In addition to seeking medical care during pregnancy, women can adopt health-and-wellness practices to minimize the risk of early miscarriage, such as maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding certain substances, and managing stress levels, all aspects vital for women's health.
