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A miscarriage is the loss of a pregnancy within 20 weeks of a woman being pregnant. Unfortunately, 15-20% of confirmed pregnancies end in miscarriage, and the path to healing can be tough, emotionally trying one. However, most women are still able to get pregnant and have children after facing a miscarriage, so do not lose hope and keep the dream alive. Just remember that whatever happens, there is a community of wonderful individuals at HU ready to support you and help you heal.
Some causes of miscarriage
Let’s talk about the known causes of miscarriage in order to understand the science behind the symptoms.
Chromosomal Abnormalities:
Abnormal chromosomes are the most common cause of miscarriage, and often occur because of extra or missing chromosomes. These issues generally arise by chance and are not genetic. Some examples of such abnormalities include a blighted ovum, where no embryo develops, a molar pregnancy, when the father gives both sets of chromosomes, and a partial molar pregnancy, where the father gives 2 sets of chromosomes in addition to the mother, causing embryos to develop, but soon stop.
Medical Conditions:
Pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressue may make miscarriage more likely to occur, if not kept under control. Hormonal imbalance, Thyroid diseases, or uterus/cervix problems could also make you more likely to face a miscarriage, so it is important to speak to your physician about the best way to treat these conditions.
Lifestyle:
Other unhealthy lifestyle habits such as smoking, drugs, or alcohol consumption can damage your health and make miscarriages more likely. Overexposure to environmental hazards such as lead and mercury could be contributing factors as well.
However, it is important to remember what activities are NOT causes of miscarriages as well. Working, exercising, and having sexual intercourse have not been seen to cause miscarriages, so do not be misled by misconceptions!
What causes miscarriage at 20 weeks pregnancy?
Miscarriage, also known as pregnancy loss, refers to the loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week. There can be several factors that contribute to miscarriage at 20 weeks or later, including:
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Chromosomal abnormalities: The most common cause of miscarriage in the first trimester, chromosomal abnormalities can also lead to miscarriage later in pregnancy. These abnormalities typically occur due to genetic issues in the developing fetus.
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Infection: Certain infections, such as urinary tract infections, bacterial vaginosis, or infections of the uterus, can increase the risk of miscarriage.
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Maternal health conditions: Pre-existing health conditions in the mother, such as uncontrolled diabetes, high blood pressure, or autoimmune disorders, can contribute to the risk of miscarriage.
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Cervical insufficiency: This is a condition in which the cervix is weak or unable to hold the pregnancy. It can lead to miscarriage or premature birth.
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Placental problems: Issues with the placenta, such as placental abruption (when the placenta separates from the uterus) or placenta previa (when the placenta covers the cervix), can cause complications and lead to miscarriage.
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Maternal age: Advanced maternal age (over 35) is associated with a higher risk of miscarriage, although it’s important to note that many women in their 30s and 40s have healthy pregnancies.
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Trauma or injury: Severe trauma or injury to the abdomen can increase the risk of miscarriage.
It’s important to remember that a miscarriage is often a complex event with various factors involved, and in many cases, the exact cause remains unknown. If you have concerns about your pregnancy or suspect a miscarriage, it’s crucial to seek medical advice from a healthcare professional. They can provide you with appropriate guidance, support, and medical care.
Hormone University was created as an educational platform with the mission to improve hormone health through accessible knowledge and to advocate for social impact in our communities.
You’re not alone.
80% of the adult female population has experienced hormonal imbalance at one point in their life that affected not only their physical health but also their mental health. Coping with pain, infertility, anxiety, depression, body image issues, and, on top of this, judgment is the heavy load most of these women have to bear each day and an important problem we need to tackle as a society.
