Beware of Miscarriage

A miscarriage also called a pregnancy loss or spontaneous abortion is the unexpected termination of a pregnancy. A miscarriage is most likely to occur during the first trimester (before 20 weeks of pregnancy). Only 1% of miscarriages occur after 20 weeks of gestation. These are called late miscarriages. Usually, half of the early abortions happen when the embryo does not develop well. This often is due to chromosomal abnormalities. Chromosomes carry the blueprints (genes) and are responsible for how people develop and function. When the sperm meets the egg during conception, two sets of chromosomes come together. If an egg or sperm has extra or fewer chromosomes than usual, the embryo will also have an odd number, leading to pregnancy loss. Miscarriages can occur due to various medical reasons, many of which aren’t within a person’s control. But being aware of the risk factors, signs, and causes can help you understand the occurrence better and seek the support or treatment you may need.

The symptoms of abortion differ based on your phase of pregnancy. Sometimes, it happens so swiftly that you may not even realize that you’re pregnant before you miscarry.

Here are some of the symptoms of a miscarriage:

• Heavy spotting

• Vaginal bleeding

• Discharge of fluid or tissue from your vagina

• Severe abdominal cramping

• Mild or severe back pain

In such cases, you should reach your doctor right away during your pregnancy. Remember that it is also possible to have these symptoms without experiencing a pregnancy loss. But your doctor will recommend undergoing a certain examination to ensure that everything is fine.

Miscarriages can’t be prevented in all cases. However, you can take the initiative to maintain a healthy pregnancy. Here are a few suggestions:

• Schedule your prenatal care throughout your pregnancy.

• Stay away from alcohol, drugs, and smoking while pregnant.

• Keep a healthy weight before and during pregnancy.

• Wash your hands thoroughly, and stay away from sick people to avoid infections.

• Reduce your caffeine intake to no more than 200 milligrams per day.

• Never skip prenatal vitamins to ensure that you and your developing fetus get enough nutrients.

• Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables to keep yourself hydrated.

Remember that having a miscarriage doesn’t mean you won’t get pregnant in the future. Most women who miscarry have healthy and normal pregnancies later. Never give up!