Why Does Miscarriage Occur?

Miscarriage is the loss of the baby before the 20th week of pregnancy. Unfortunately, miscarriages are quite common and occur in about 10-20% of pregnancies. Most miscarriages happen within the first 13 weeks of pregnancy.

There can be many causes of miscarriage, and sometimes it may not be possible to determine the exact cause. However, the most common causes are:

1. Chromosomal Abnormalities:

Approximately 50-70% of miscarriages are caused by problems in the baby's chromosomes. Chromosomes carry the baby's genetic material and control development. Chromosomal abnormalities can prevent the baby from surviving or developing healthily.

2. Maternal Health Problems:

Certain health issues in the mother can also cause miscarriage. These include:

• Uncontrolled diabetes: High blood sugar can cause birth defects and miscarriage.
• Thyroid diseases: Overactive or underactive thyroid can cause miscarriage.
• Autoimmune diseases: Autoimmune diseases like lupus can cause the body to attack its own tissues, leading to miscarriage.
• Cervical insufficiency: Early opening of the cervix can cause miscarriage.
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): PCOS, a hormonal disorder, can cause miscarriage.
• Infections: Infections such as rubella, toxoplasmosis, listeria, cytomegalovirus, and sexually transmitted diseases can cause miscarriage.

3. Lifestyle Factors:

Certain lifestyle factors can also increase the risk of miscarriage. These include:

• Smoking: Smoking can double the risk of miscarriage.
• Alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol use can increase the risk of miscarriage.
• Drug use: Drugs such as cocaine and heroin can increase the risk of miscarriage.
• Caffeine consumption: Excessive caffeine intake can increase the risk of miscarriage.
• Advanced maternal age: Women aged 35 and older have a higher risk of miscarriage.
• Previous miscarriage history: Having had a miscarriage before can increase the risk in subsequent pregnancies.

4. Other Causes:

• Uterine anomalies: Structural abnormalities of the uterus (such as septum or bicornuate uterus) can cause miscarriage.
• Fibroids: Benign tumors in the uterus (fibroids) can cause miscarriage.
• Placenta problems: Improper attachment or malfunction of the placenta can cause miscarriage.
• Trauma: Blows to the abdominal area can cause miscarriage.

It is not possible to completely eliminate the risk of miscarriage. However, adopting a healthy lifestyle, managing risk factors, and regular medical check-ups can help reduce the risk.

Many miscarriages are caused by genetic factors. Genetic abnormalities in the egg and sperm cells can affect the development of the fetus and cause miscarriages. Additionally, a family history of frequent miscarriages in the mother or father can increase the likelihood of recurrence.

During pregnancy, significant hormonal changes occur in the body. These changes are necessary to support the development of the fetus. However, in some cases, hormonal imbalance can cause miscarriages. Specifically, insufficient secretion of the hormone progesterone can lead to miscarriages.

Structural abnormalities in the uterus can also cause miscarriages. For example, a part of the uterus being smaller than normal can lead to insufficient space for the fetus to develop and cause miscarriages. Additionally, fibroids or polyps in the uterus can also lead to miscarriages.

Some infections can cause miscarriages during pregnancy. In particular, infections in the uterus can affect fetal development and lead to miscarriages. Additionally, urinary tract infections can also cause miscarriages.

During pregnancy, it is important for the mother to have adequate and balanced nutrition for the healthy development of the baby. Insufficient nutrition can affect fetal development and cause miscarriages. Additionally, being overweight or obese can also increase the risk of miscarriage.

Stress and anxiety are factors that can cause miscarriages during pregnancy. Especially excessive stress and worry can affect the development of the baby and lead to miscarriage. Therefore, it is important to avoid stress during pregnancy.

It is not appropriate to suggest any method or action to induce miscarriage. Miscarriage is a medical condition that should be managed under the guidance of your doctor. If you have concerns about miscarriage, it is important to discuss suitable options and treatment plans with your doctor.

The physical recovery process after a miscarriage can vary from person to person. Generally, bleeding and abdominal pain may last for several days or weeks. Your doctor will provide you with more information about post-miscarriage care and recovery.

Remember, even if you have experienced a miscarriage, you can have healthy babies in subsequent pregnancies. It is important to stay in regular contact with your doctor and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Miscarriage is a condition that can have many different causes. However, most of these causes are preventable or treatable. Therefore, adopting a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy is important to reduce the risk of miscarriage. Additionally, most women who have had a miscarriage can have healthy babies in subsequent pregnancies.

If you have experienced a miscarriage or are at risk, you can talk to your doctor to get more information about this condition. It is also important to attend regular doctor visits and maintain a healthy lifestyle for a healthy pregnancy.