A miscarriage, also referred to as “spontaneous abortion,” is the loss of a fetus before the 20th week of pregnancy. Miscarriage is a common but often distressing experience, affecting about 15–25% of recognized pregnancies. While most miscarriages occur before 12 weeks (first trimester), some happen before a woman even realizes she is pregnant. A pregnancy loss after 20 weeks is considered a stillbirth.
If you experience any of these symptoms, contact a healthcare provider immediately. In rare cases, an ectopic pregnancy—when the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus—can mimic miscarriage symptoms. An ectopic pregnancy requires urgent medical attention due to risks of internal bleeding.
While many miscarriages occur due to genetic or developmental issues beyond anyone’s control, several factors can increase the risk:
Diagnosis:
Treatment:
If the body does not expel all pregnancy tissue naturally, a healthcare provider may perform a dilation and curettage (D&C) to remove it. Medications may also be prescribed to prevent infection or manage bleeding. Emotional support is essential, as miscarriage can be a challenging experience.
Though not all miscarriages can be prevented, adopting healthy lifestyle habits can reduce risks:
Contrary to popular belief, activities like sex or light exercise do not cause miscarriage. However, certain types of intense physical activity might be inappropriate later in pregnancy. It is essential to consult a healthcare provider to determine safe activities.
Many people go on to have successful pregnancies after experiencing a miscarriage, and it is important to remember that a single miscarriage does not determine future fertility. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) emphasizes that most individuals are able to conceive again relatively quickly, often within a few menstrual cycles, with no lasting complications. Studies suggest that the chances of a healthy pregnancy remain high even after one or two losses, with many couples successfully carrying pregnancies to term afterward.
In cases where multiple miscarriages occur—referred to as recurrent pregnancy loss (two or more consecutive miscarriages)—it may indicate underlying medical or genetic issues. Genetic testing, hormonal evaluations, and assessments of uterine health can provide insights into potential causes. In some situations, conditions such as a weakened cervix, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or autoimmune disorders like lupus can contribute to pregnancy loss, and targeted treatments may be recommended to support future pregnancies. Mental health care is also essential during this time, as dealing with repeated losses can lead to emotional distress.
Even with these challenges, advances in reproductive medicine—such as fertility treatments, progesterone supplements, and in-vitro fertilization (IVF)—have given individuals with a history of miscarriage new opportunities for parenthood. Many healthcare providers encourage couples to seek emotional and physical recovery before trying again and remind them that a history of miscarriage does not eliminate the possibility of welcoming a healthy baby into their lives.
Miscarriage is a common but deeply personal experience. Although it can be caused by various factors, many are beyond one’s control. Staying healthy, seeking medical support, and leaning on family and friends can help individuals cope with the loss and prepare for future pregnancies. While miscarriage rates decline as pregnancies progress, no two experiences are alike. Emotional healing is as important as physical recovery, and with proper care, most people can have healthy pregnancies after a loss.
