Miscarrying can be a source of shame for many women. Some regard it as a personal failure, and it is rightfully feared, but miscarriages are caused by external factors. Fortunately, there are steps one can take to minimise the chances of it occurring. Read on for answers to common questions about miscarriage and a guide on what to take note of.
1. What to look out for?
Miscarriage symptoms can manifest in many ways. Some women experience pain similar to periods, bleeding, and mild to severe lower back pain: obvious indicators that something is amiss. Others may experience no outward symptoms at all and only catch it during routine ultrasound inspections.
These ultrasound sessions are vital to maintaining your and your baby’s health. Go for regular check-ups, where doctors and fertility specialists can guide you along your pregnancy. Doctors can also pick up signs that the pregnancy requires further testing if hiccups arise. Viable pregnancies can be confirmed through this check-up, with the chances of miscarriage being significantly reduced when the baby’s health is regularly checked.
2. Are they genetic?
There are many reasons that one may experience a miscarriage. These are common, and with the array of circumstances which could cause them, it is not shocking that other family members could have experienced them as well. In reality, a miscarriage could be caused by certain medical histories that run in the family, or it could be entirely coincidental. The timing of conception, hormonal imbalances, and age can all play a part in the occurrence of a possible miscarriage.
If others in your family have miscarried in the past, do not be afraid. Visit a doctor for regular check-ups and inquire about what you can do to keep you and your baby healthy during this pregnancy. Overt concern could put unnecessary stress on you during this very sensitive time. Place yourself in the hands of professionals for the information you need and peace of mind.
3. Does age play a role?
Women are born with a finite number of eggs, and their eggs are as old as them. Women over 35 face a higher chance of miscarrying, and the quality of their eggs declines due to their ageing. Women in their 40s face a 50% chance of miscarriage. Ageing plays a part in every woman’s pregnancy health and the embryo that forms. As time passes, oxidative stresses can also contribute to the DNA of the embryo, with the risk of chromosomally abnormal pregnancies increasing with age as well.
In men, the quality of sperm does affect the outcome of the embryo. Sperm quality also decreases with age, especially after a man hits 40. Exposure to the aforementioned oxidative stress also plays a part in the DNA of the genetic material, and women whose partners are over 45 experience double the chances of possibly miscarrying. That is not to say that issues arising in pregnancy are guaranteed in older couples. Consult a doctor to understand the miscarriage risk and keep yourself on top of your and your baby’s health.
4. What happens post-miscarriage?
Recovery is vital. Physical healing paves the road towards a stronger you for both mind and body. It is common to experience bleeding, cramping, and fatigue for several days or even weeks after the initial miscarry. Do not worry; this is normal, and resting throughout and staying hydrated is essential to get your energy back. Consult a healthcare provider for aid in proper monitoring and support throughout this recovery process.
For those who’d like to try conceiving again, doctors generally advise to wait after your first or second period to start trying to become pregnant again. Pay attention to your physical and mental health. Just because the time has passed does not mean that everybody, both woman and partner, will be emotionally ready to start attempting conception again. Wait until you and your partner are mentally prepared to try again to minimise stress and make the process a healthy one.
Conclusion
Miscarriage is common and shouldn’t be considered a personal fault among women. Factors beyond one’s control can contribute to it occurring, but there are avenues through healthcare providers that can maintain your and your baby’s health as a top priority.
At The O&G Specialist Clinic, we certainly aim for your health to be our priority. We strive to offer you solutions towards making parenthood a comfortable journey. Our fertility doctors offer IUI treatment in Singapore, gynaecology services, and more; all catered for your needs.
Let’s journey together as you take the next steps towards parenthood today.
