Miscarriage

What is miscarriage?

Miscarriage, or pregnancy loss, is when an embryo or foetus is naturally lost before being able to independently survive, in the first 23 weeks of the gestation period.

What causes miscarriage?

Sometimes the cause of miscarriage is unclear, and miscarriages can happen for many reasons. Most miscarriages are not affected by the woman herself, and most miscarriages are one-off events. Having a miscarriage does not necessarily mean you will not be able to have a successful pregnancy in the future.

Miscarriages which occur in the first trimester (i.e the first 3 months of the pregnancy) can be caused by abnormal chromosomes, which mean the baby does not develop properly. There may also be a problem with the development of the placenta, which can also lead to miscarriage.

After the first trimester, a miscarriage may occur because of health issues in the mother, or because of an infection which causes the waters to break. Food poisoning and certain medications can also increase the risk of miscarriage.

Symptoms of miscarriage

The commonest sign of miscarriage is vaginal bleeding. The bleeding may occur over several days, and can come in the form of spotting, heavy bleeding, or passing bright red clots. This bleeding can come and go, and because vaginal bleeding can occur lightly during the first trimester of pregnancy, it doesn’t necessarily indicate miscarriage. Speak to your healthcare provider or GP if you experience vaginal bleeding during pregnancy.

You may also feel:

Cramp in your lower abdomen
The regular symptoms of pregnancy, such as tender breasts, are no longer present
Discharge of fluid or tissue from the vagina

Can miscarriage be prevented?

Most miscarriages cannot be prevented, however there are certain activities or states which can increase the risk of miscarriage. Risk factor is increased if:

You smoke, drink, or take drugs while pregnant
You are overweight
Your caffeine intake is high
You have diabetes which is not adequately controlled
You have an overactive or underactive thyroid
You have severe high blood pressure
You have kidney disease
You are a certain age:

1 in 10 pregnancies end in miscarriage in those under 30
Up to 2 in 10 pregnancies end in miscarriage in those between the ages of 35-39
Over 5 in 10 pregnancies end in miscarriage in those aged over 45

After a miscarriage

After a miscarriage, it is normal to feel an emotional impact. The miscarriage can affect not just you, but family and friends around you. Support is available for those who have lost a baby in miscarriage. Speak to your GP for advice, and you may be able to find a counselling group or counsellor who can help you and your family through what can be a difficult time. The NHS can help you to find bereavement support services in your area, or you may choose to visit a private qualified therapist or psychologist.

Articles related to Miscarriage

In our latest article, esteemed obstetrician and gynaecologist, Mr Christian Barnick, reveals how long women should rest after miscarrying.

Recovering from a miscarriage: how long should I rest after miscarrying?

By Mr Christian Barnick
2022-08-13

In our latest article, esteemed obstetrician and gynaecologist, Mr Christian Barnick, reveals how long women should rest after miscarrying, how miscarriages affect a woman's body immediately afterwards, and whether or not a miscarriage means that the body of the woman is permanently affected. See more

Understanding the difference between a miscarriage and an ectopic pregnancy, and where to get treatment

By Dr Shahla Ahmed
2022-08-13

Ectopic pregnancies and miscarriages have similar symptoms, making it difficult to differentiate between them without seeing a specialist. Dr Shahla Ahmed, a leading consultant gynaecologist in London, explains what these conditions are, how you can tell them apart and where to get treated. See more

A woman and man both places their hands the woman's pregnant stomach

Causes and treatment of recurrent miscarriage

By Mr Stephen Quinn
2022-08-12

If you're trying to conceive but have had three or more consecutive miscarriages, your situation can be defined as recurrent miscarriage. There are several potential causes but fortunately, there are several treatments to help try and reduce the risk of further miscarriages. Mr Stephen Quinn, a specialist in the matter, provides you with a thorough explanation of causes and treatments. See more

What are some common early pregnancy complications?

By Dr Sharmistha Guha
2022-08-07

Expecting a baby is an exciting and emotional time! During the first few months, you can expect various changes to your body; some which are harmless and others which may need some more attention. London-based obstetrician and gynaecologist, Dr Sharmistha Guha, gives us an overview of some of the most common complications a woman can face in the first trimester. See more

Experts in Miscarriage