Having a miscarriage is not as uncommon as we think. Losing a pregnancy can be devastating physically and more importantly, mentally for the couple. Some unfortunate events may lead to two or more pregnancy losses in a row, triggering anxiety. It can also create a feeling of guilt for doing something wrong in the couple, especially the mother. In some circumstances, it may point toward medical conditions interfering with pregnancy.
The emotional toll of losing a pregnancy is compounded by myths that fuel guilt, anxiety, and uncertainty. We spoke to Dr Shivani Jain, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Manipal Hospital, Goa, who debunked myths and stated facts about miscarriage.
Myths and Facts About Miscarriage
Myth 1: Miscarriages can be prevented
Dr Jain said, “Frequently, miscarriages are linked to factors like inadequate rest, high stress, intense workouts, and poor diet. Although these elements might play a role in extreme cases, they are not the primary causes.”
Fact: Most spontaneous miscarriages happen due to the foetus having genetic problems that cause its growth to stop. This is not preventable by the mother.
Dr Jain added, “Miscarriage rates increase with the age of the mother. While women around 20 years may have a spontaneous miscarriage rate of around 10%, the incidence increases to 50% in the 40s age group. The age of the father may also have an effect, however, it is less pronounced and generally seen when he is above 40 years of age.”
Fact: Proven modifiable factors for preventing miscarriage
Here is a list of things that may decrease the chances of a miscarriage.
- Cessation of smoking
- Stop alcohol consumption
- Decreasing caffeine intake
- Maintaining optimum nutrition and weight
Myth 2: Having one miscarriage increases the likelihood of a second miscarriage
Fact: Dr Jain informed, “While there is no doubt having one miscarriage increases anxiety about the second pregnancy. However, statistically after the first miscarriage, the chances of a second one are not significantly high.”
She added, “In the past when someone had three or more miscarriages in the early stages of pregnancy, it was called 'recurrent miscarriage'. Doctors usually began looking into why these miscarriages happened after three in a row. But sometimes, doctors might start investigating after two miscarriages based on their judgement and considering what's best for the couple's health. In general, getting aggressive in searching for a reason after one miscarriage is not justified as repeated miscarriages affect only 1% of women.”
As per the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, approximately 80% of pregnancy losses occur in the first trimester. Some common causes of repeated miscarriages are issues with the uterus or cervical incompetence, certain infections, genetic problems in the parents, medical conditions like thrombophilias, uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, and thyroid disease in the mother.
Also Read: Planning Pregnancy With Diabetes? Expert Lists Tips You Should Follow
Myth 3: Bleeding in pregnancy means you are going to miscarry
Fact: About 1 in 4 women experience vaginal bleeding during the first trimester
Dr Jain said, “Bleeding can be normal, such as implantation bleeding or bleeding from the external genital area, which might not harm the pregnancy.” However, it could also signal potential issues like a threatened abortion, ectopic pregnancy, or molar pregnancy. Consult your doctor to understand why you're experiencing this.
Myth 4: You must wait before trying to conceive again after a miscarriage
Fact: You may try as soon as you are physically and emotionally healthy.
Dr Jain highlighted, “In the past, it was recommended to wait three months after a first-trimester miscarriage before trying to conceive again. However, recent studies show that attempting pregnancy just one month after a miscarriage doesn't impact the likelihood of a healthy full-term pregnancy.”
Disclaimer
The information in this article is shared by a registered healthcare professional and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult with your gynaecologist if you face any issues during pregnancy.
