Miscarriage refers to the sudden loss of pregnancy before the 20th week. It is identified by symptoms such as vaginal bleeding, followed by pain and abdominal cramping. While it is an unfortunate event, miscarriages are more common than you think. Reportedly, about 10–20% of pregnant women end up having a miscarriage. Many even occur before people realise they are pregnant, which is why the numbers can be higher than suggested. But why do miscarriages happen, and what puts women at risk? In this article, we will understand the same and also find out whether one miscarriage can put a person at risk of another.
Also Read: Miscarriage Can Be Prevented And More: Expert Debunks Myths About Miscarriage
Why Miscarriages Take Place
According to StatPearls Publishing, about 80% of miscarriages occur during the first trimester, which lasts until the end of the 13th week of pregnancy. The majority of pregnancy loss happens before ten weeks. In some cases, women may also experience recurrent pregnancy loss, characterised by two or more miscarriages in a row.
Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Mahua Bhattacharya, Consultant Gynaecologist, Fortis Hospital, Anandapur, shares various factors that lead to a miscarriage. These include:
Abnormal chromosomes: Miscarriages majorly happen in the first trimester within 12 weeks; more than half the time, they are due to problems in the baby’s chromosomes.
Medical conditions: Pre-existing medical conditions like infections or autoimmune disorders, even long-term diabetes and heart problems, as well as problems with the uterus and cervix, can put a woman at higher risk of pregnancy.
Environmental factors: Passive inhalation of smoke and having fruits and vegetables sprinkled with pesticides can be a major reason for miscarriage.
What Puts Women At Greater Risk?
Dr Bhattacharya says, “Women are at greater risk of miscarriage due to factors such as advanced maternal age, past miscarriages, chromosomal abnormalities in the foetus, hormonal imbalances, uterine or cervical abnormalities, infections, chronic diseases (like diabetes), lifestyle factors (such as smoking and heavy alcohol use), and being underweight or overweight.”
The Mayo Clinic suggests that women who are older than 35 have a higher risk of miscarriage than a younger person.
"At age 35, you have about a 20% risk. At age 40, the risk is about 33% to 40%. And at age 45, it ranges from 57% to 80%," the health website shares.
Additionally, if a person has an ongoing health condition, such as uncontrolled diabetes, they may be at a greater risk of pregnancy loss.
Does One Miscarriage Put You At Risk Of Another?
“Having one miscarriage does not necessarily put a woman at higher risk for another,” says Dr Bhattacharya.
However, experiencing multiple miscarriages, known as recurrent pregnancy loss, can indicate an underlying health issue that may increase the risk of future miscarriages, she adds.
This is when consulting a healthcare provider can help identify and manage any potential risks.
She notes that the risk of miscarriage in a future pregnancy is about 20% after one miscarriage. After two miscarriages in a row, the risk of another miscarriage goes up to about 25%. After three or more miscarriages in a row, the risk of another miscarriage is about 30–40%.
Also Read: Pregnancy Loss: When Is The Riskiest Time And Things To Avoid
How To Mitigate The Risk Of Miscarriage
Here’s how pregnant women can reduce their risk of miscarriage, especially if they have a risk factor:
- Have a preconception checkup.
- Have regular prenatal visits so your doctor can help prevent and treat any problems early.
- Take a daily multivitamin.
- Limit caffeine.
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet.
- Avoid certain foods that can carry bacteria.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Ask your doctor about your risks from the environment and how to protect yourself.
Conclusion
Miscarriages, while often more common than generally perceived, can occur for various reasons. Understanding and managing risk factors is an essential step in reducing the risk of pregnancy loss. By being aware of these factors and seeking appropriate medical guidance, individuals can take the necessary steps to support a healthy pregnancy and improve outcomes.