FACTORS AFFECTING A MISCARRIAGE
A miscarriage simply defined as the loss of a foetus in the first trimester, or anywhere before the 20th week of pregnancy. In the medical circles they may use the term spontaneous abortion. About 15% of all pregnancies end in a miscarriage. 80% of this occur in the first 3 months. After that the risk is lower but still possible.
Factors affecting a Miscarriage
A miscarriage can happen to anyone, but there are some factors that makes some more vulnerable than others. If you’re a victim of any of the factors listed below, ensure that you mention it to your doctor in good time.
The following might put you at a higher risk:
- Advanced age: older women, mostly above 35 are more vulnerable
- 2 or more prior miscarriages
- Some chronic diseases such as diabetes and HIV
- Cervical or uterine conditions
- A history of birth defects or generic conditions with either partner
- High caffeine consumption, alcohol, cigarettes and drugs
- Medication: consult your doctor before taking medicine
- Obesity
Symptoms
Vaginal bleeding is the first alarm bell in a miscarriage. It starts as light spotting then progresses to heavy bleeding. Abdominal pain follows, which occurs soon after the bleeding begins. You may experience severe cramps or some low back pain, sometimes accompanied by fever and weakness.
Visit your doctor at the first sign of bleeding accompanied by abdominal pains. Keep in mind that similar symptoms can also be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy. Only an ultrasound can reveal what the real issue is.
In the unfortunate incidence that the pregnancy is lost, the tissue passes out in the form of blood clots, just as it happens during periods. There are also medical procedures to remove the tissue.
A miscarriage is a physically and emotionally draining experience. If you’ve gone through it, take heart. There is still another chance. Most victims of one miscarriage soon conceive and carry the pregnancy to term.