Understanding Prenatal Care

Miscarriage is sadly a common occurrence that can be emotionally and physically devastating for you and your partner. But what causes a miscarriage? And can anything be done to prevent them? This article explores some of the most common causes of miscarriage and offers advice on how to reduce your risk.  

Hormonal Imbalance

When the levels of progesterone and estrogen dip too low, the uterine lining breaks down, causing bleeding and leading to a miscarriage. In some cases, an imbalance in thyroid hormone levels can also lead to a miscarriage. Thyroid hormone helps regulate progesterone production, so too much or too little thyroid hormone can disrupt progesterone levels and lead to a miscarriage.

A hormonal imbalance could also cause polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). If you suffer from PCOS, you probably have high levels of androgens (male hormones), which can interfere with ovulation and lead to pregnancy loss.

If you have experienced multiple miscarriages, you might want to talk to your OB-GYN doctor about the possibility of a hormonal imbalance. Treatment options for hormonal imbalances include medication and surgery. With proper treatment, many women can achieve a successful pregnancy.

Lifestyle Factors 

While it's true that there are many unknowns when it comes to miscarriage, there are also several lifestyle factors that can contribute to the occurrence of this devastating event. For example, mothers who smoke are more likely to miscarry than those who don't. Substance abuse, including alcohol and drugs, can also lead to miscarriage.

Additionally, exposure to certain environmental toxins can increase your risk of miscarriage. These toxins include lead, mercury, and pesticides. If you work with these substances, you need to take precautions to protect yourself and your baby.

Certain medications can also cause miscarriage. If you're taking any medication, consult your OB-GYN to ensure it's safe for you to continue taking it during pregnancy.

Chromosomal Abnormalities

Many different chromosomal abnormalities can cause a miscarriage. The most common abnormality is an extra chromosome, which results in a condition known as trisomy. This condition can lead to physical deformities and developmental delays.

Other chromosomal abnormalities include monosomy (missing a chromosome) and polyploidy (having more than two sets of chromosomes). These abnormalities are often caused by errors during cell division. As the cells divide, the chromosomes can become rearranged or lost entirely. This condition can lead to severe developmental problems and even death.

Thankfully, treatments are available for couples who have experienced a miscarriage due to chromosomal abnormalities. Proper medical care can reduce the risk of future miscarriages and give couples the chance to have a healthy baby.

Contact an OB-GYN doctor, such as Dr. Ronald Cypher MD, to learn more.