What Can Cause Miscarriage in Early Pregnancy?

Summary

Pregnant women lost their pregnancies in the first trimester is not such a rare case as an individual believes and it might happen because of a variety of possible causes most of which are not within the reach of an individual in any way. Understanding why miscarriages happen, recognizing the signs of early miscarriages, and learning how to prevent miscarriage where possible can help reduce fear and confusion during pregnancy.

This article explains the medical, lifestyle and health related factors that contribute to early pregnancy loss, the way to determine that you have a miscarriage and the answers to the frequently asked questions in an easy, friendly and understandable format.

Introduction

Hey folks, welcome back to my blog post, I am Dr Shivani Bhutani well known among many as the Ludhiana gynaecologist serving for years. The process of pregnancy is usually full of mystery, anticipation and many questions. Yet to others it is a source of concern, at least during the first few weeks. Many people ask themselves why do miscarriages happen and whether something they did caused it. The fact is that the cases of early pregnancy loss are much higher and more widespread as compared to what the majority of people discuss and that in most instances, it occurs due to the fact that the pregnancy was not developing as it should.

This articl will discuss What can cause miscarriage in early pregnancy in a straightforward and understanding manner. We’ll break down the most common causes, explain what happens inside the body, discuss warning signs, and share practical information about how to prevent miscarriage when possible. You are already pregnant or are planning to have a baby, or just need to know some things, then this is the guide you need in order to know without fear or blame.

Chromosomal and Genetic Abnormalities

The most frequent cause of early pregnancy miscarriage is chromosomal and genetic. These issues mostly occur, even when one is not yet pregnant. They are not brought about by a reason that the pregnant individual did or did not do.

An embryo will not develop normally when the egg is fertilized but it lacks, contains more, or has broken chromosomes. Consequently, the pregnancy is naturally terminated in the body.

Chromosomal Errors During Fertilization

Mistakes with chromosomes usually happen during fertilization. Every parent brings in the chromosomes and in some cases, they do not divide and combine properly. It can result in a situation when the embryo contains excess or a limited number of chromosomes.

These malfunctions do not allow normal development and the pregnancy normally stops growing in the initial few weeks. That is why there are a lot of miscarriages that occur before 12 weeks and in some cases before some symptoms are detected.

Inherited Genetic Conditions

In certain instances, either or both the parents can have a genetic disorder but not demonstrate any symptoms. These conditions may impact on the development of the fetus when transferred.

Although decreasing in frequency compared to random chromosomal problems, inherited genetic diseases may predispose an individual to recurrent miscarriages. In case of pregnancy loss more than once genetic testing and counseling can be used to detect these problems.

Hormonal Imbalances and Medical Conditions

Hormones are essential in the process of having a healthy pregnancy. In case of an imbalance of hormones or some medical conditions, the uterus cannot sustain the developing embryo.

These problems can be treated at times and hence early prenatal care is very crucial.

Low Progesterone Levels

Progesterone is a hormone that also prepares the uterus to carry a pregnancy and also maintains the uterine lining thick enough to carry the embryo. And in case the progesterone level is insufficient, the pregnancy may not last.

Low progesterone can cause early bleeding and is sometimes linked to signs of early miscarriages. In other situations, the risk can be diminished by prescribing hormone support by the doctor.

Chronic Health Conditions

There are medical disorders like diabetes, thyroid, auto immune diseases, blood clotting disorders that may interfere with early pregnancy. When these conditions are not managed, they can put one at risk of miscarriage.

A large number of individuals are not aware of the infection until the symptoms manifest or they get into complications.

Infections and Illnesses

The instances of miscarriage are increased in case of infections like listeria, toxoplasmosis and certain sexually transmitted diseases. High fever that is caused by viral diseases can also be dangerous in early pregnancy.

Good hygiene, safe food handling and periodic checkups should reduce these risks.

Bacterial and Viral Infections

This may make the body to redirect the energy to pregnancy in case it is fighting a serious illness. It has been linked to high fever in the first trimester leading to pregnancy loss.

During pregnancy, there is need to diagnose the disease and consult a doctor at a tender age.

Severe Illness and High Fever

In the case of a body, which is trying to fight a serious illness, they may divert the energy to pregnancy. Pregnancy loss has been reported to be caused by high fever during the first trimester.

Timely care and healthcare counsel are important in case of disease in the course of pregnancy.

Lifestyle and Environmental Factors

Habits and environmental exposures can affect early pregnancy; in other instances without necessarily being clear. Miscarriages cannot be prevented but it can be possible to reduce some of the risks by making healthier choices.

This is where many people wonder about how to prevent miscarriage in practical ways.

Smoking, Alcohol, and Substance Use

Smoking reduces the oxygen supply of the growing fetus but consumption of alcohol and other drugs may affect the early growth of the fetus. These chemicals have high chances of miscarriage.

The one most effective prevention strategy is that in all cases, these substances should not be taken during pregnancy.

Exposure to Toxins and Radiation

Chemicals, pesticides, heavy metals and radiations may impair the development of the fetus. The occupational exposures or poor home environment may augment miscarriage.

Wearing of protective clothing and preventing contact with harmful substances as much as possible are also important during pregnancy.

Physical Trauma and Uterine Abnormalities

The uterus and cervix have a significant physical structure that helps to support pregnancy. Early pregnancy loss may be caused by structural problems or injuries.

These are the less frequent causes but are still significant to know.

Uterine Shape and Structural Issues

There are individuals who are born with an abnormally shaped uterus, or they can develop fibroids or scar tissue. They may cause interference with implantation or blood circulation to the embryo.

There may be a way out to these problems, and the medical imaging can be used to diagnose the problem.

Cervical Weakness or Injury

Rarely the cervix can also open prematurely as a result of being weak or having suffered some injury. Although this is usually associated with late pregnancy loss, in other cases, it can also affect the early pregnancy.

This risk can be controlled through close monitoring and medical intervention.

Stress, Nutrition, and Overall Health

The everyday stress does not normally cause the miscarriage, however, the extreme physical or emotional stress can affect the body to sustain pregnancy.

Early development is also concerned with health and nutrition.

Severe Physical or Emotional Stress

Excessive exhaustion, suffering or other serious emotional conditions can disrupt the hormonal state and immune system. This may result into complications of pregnancy.

It may be useful to acquire certain stress management skills and emotional support.

Poor Nutrition and Vitamin Deficiencies

The inadequate amounts of the required nutrients, i.e. folic acid, iron and vitamin D, can have an impact on the development of the fetus during the initial stages. Poor nutrition also may weaken the immune system.

Eating a balanced diet and taking prenatal vitamins assist in the process of attaining a healthy pregnancy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)