by Amber Richards

Created on: July 13, 2008

Going through a miscarriage can be very hard on both you, your significant other, and your family. Miscarriages can be caused by different reasons and knowing the signs and symptoms can be difficult. In this article we will discuss the possible reasons for miscarriages, preventative measures, and symptoms that may point to a possible miscarriage.

A misscarriage is more likely to occur during the first trimester. It is estimated that 15-20% of all known pregnancies end in miscarriage. The earliest type of miscarriage happens when the fertilized egg doesn't fully embed in the uterus. This type of miscarriage generally goes unnoticed because it happens so early on.

Below are a few other known causes of miscarriages:

-Abnormal uterus

-Hormone abnormalities

-Infection

-Injury to the abdomen

-Genetic abnormalities of the fetus (most common)

-Diabetes

-PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome)

-Toxemia

-The parents age (BOTH the mother and father)

-Environmental hazards

-Other unidentifiable variants that may occur early on in pregnancy

As you can see by the information listed above, many things can be linked to causing miscarriages. Smoking, alcohol, and caffeine consumption have also been linked to an increased risk for miscarriage. Below is a list of possible symptoms that can be associated with miscarriage. If you feel like you may be experiencing a miscarriage, seek immediate medical attention.

Symptoms:

-Abdominal cramps (may range in severity)

-Vaginal bleeding (may range in severity)

-Pain in the abdomen

-You may have blood clots

-You may also experience back pain

There are a few preventative measures that you can take to try to avoid miscarriages. Keep in mind that not all miscarriages can be avoided and not all miscarriages have specific causes. Giving up alcohol and cigarette smoking can lower your risk as described above. Also reducing your caffeine intake, eating a well balanced diet, and taking your prenatal vitamins everyday may also reduce your risk for miscarriage.

The most successful chance for a healthy baby, is to start with a healthy mommy. It is important to stay on top of your personal health so that your baby has a better chance of survival in the womb. It is hard to go through a miscarriage. I personally have lost a baby and it is the most difficult thing that I have ever went through. I am now 30 weeks pregnant and am thankful for each extra day my baby stays inside of me.

I want to say I am very sorry for anyone who has experienced a miscarriage and to let them know that there is light at the end of the tunnel. There are many support groups out there, and many informative sites that can give you information and encouragement. Here are some of my favorites.

http://www.dmoz.org/Home/Family/Pregnancy/ Loss/

http://dailystrength.org/c/Miscarriage-Stillbir th/support-group

Reference:

http://www.medicinenet.com /miscarriage/article.htm

Learn more about this author, Amber Richards.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.