Understanding Miscarriage
Mar 25, 2021
Miscarriage can be a very difficult experience to deal with, and it is often a delicate topic. A miscarriage occurs when a baby dies in the womb within the first 20 weeks of pregnancy. Pregnancy loss most often happens during the first trimester or before the 13th week. No woman is exempt from the risk of miscarriage, and it is estimated that up to 15% of pregnancies end in miscarriage.
This high percentage, regardless of how or when it occurs, can be extremely difficult to undergo. A miscarriage is the loss of life within the womb, and for women who have experienced infertility or “repeat miscarriages,” this can be devastating. Women and their partners may face the fear of never having a healthy, successful pregnancy.
The first step your physician will want to take is determining the cause of your miscarriage. There are multiple reasons why a woman is unable to carry a baby to term. Many miscarriages within the first trimester occur because of abnormalities with the fetus. Sometimes the woman’s body “knows” that the fetus is not viable, and a spontaneous miscarriage occurs. Other miscarriages and repeat miscarriages are caused by chromosomal abnormalities, uterine and cervical issues, or infections. Tests can be performed after a miscarriage to determine the exact cause. These include blood tests, chromosome tests, hormone tests, physical examination of the uterus, ultrasound, and x-rays. It is also widely accepted that other risk factors for miscarriage include women being over 35, women who smoke or consume alcohol, obesity, uterine trauma, and autoimmune disorders.
Recovery from a miscarriage includes both physical and emotional healing. In most cases, physical recovery is complete within one month, and periods generally return after 4-6 weeks. Pregnancy hormones remain in the bloodstream for up to 2 months, so the body may not fully return to normal for up to 8 or 9 weeks.
The emotional impact of a miscarriage may last must longer. It is crucial to allow yourself to experience the various stages of grief to occur. The loss of a baby can be devastating, and it is important to find emotional support during this time. While it is common for women to want to know how soon they can start trying to conceive again, you will want to speak with your physician.
If you are pregnant and experience spotting, pain, cramping, or bleeding, seek medical evaluation as soon as possible. While these symptoms do not always indicate a miscarriage, we always want to err on the side of caution. At Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates, P.A., we are committed to mixing excellent medical care with sensitivity and compassion. We offer top-ranked prenatal services, including care for women with repeat miscarriages or high-risk pregnancies.