What is a miscarriage?
A miscarriage, simply put, is a pregnancy loss prior to the 20th week of pregnancy. After this time it is referred to as a stillbirth.
How often do miscarriages happen?
It is estimated that as many as 3 out of every 4 pregnancies may end in miscarriage or stillbirth. Sometimes, this is before a woman is even aware she has conceived, which makes this number harder to estimate.
A look at some of the different types of miscarriage.
In terminology that could feel like a slap in the face to someone who has experienced a pregnancy loss, miscarriages are medically defined as abortions (more specifically spontaneous abortion).
Threatened abortion Cramps or bleeding along with back pain are present. Many pregnancies at this point will still be carried to term. Careful diagnosis includes ultrasound and may include other therapies. Depending on what is wrong, the medical help the mother and child receive at this point may make all the difference.
Incomplete abortion Part of the tissue from a miscarriage is still inside the uterus. Sometimes a D&C (Dilation and Curettage or scraping of uterus) is necessary to remove tissue so that infection does not set in. New chemical therapies are being developed so that this kind of procedure will not have to be endured in the future.
Inevitable abortion As the term implies, it is when the miscarriage is unavoidable. Nothing will stop the process. It is now only a matter of time.
Missed abortion The fetus has died but has not yet been expelled. Sometimes a D&C (Dilation and Curettage or scraping of uterus) is necessary to remove tissue so that infection does not set in. New chemical therapies are being developed so that this kind of procedure will not have to be endured in the future.
What causes a miscarriage?
There are many causes, some of which may never be known. Chromosomal abnormalities, low progesterone, problems with the developing baby’s attachment to the uterine wall, physical trauma, disease or infection and even lifestyle (obesity, alcohol use, aspirin, ibuprofen, exposure to first and secondhand smoke, caffeine, some forms of birth control) are suspect in the loss of a pregnancy.
What are common symptoms of miscarriage?
ANY cramping, ANY bleeding, back pain can be a symptom of miscarriage both together and separately. Many times a woman will find medical professionals slow to react to such stories. It is important to be persistent if you believe the life of your child is in danger. If there is ever a time for a second opinion, it is during this time.
