Multiple Miscarriages
For parents who have been trying to conceive, having a miscarriage can be a very devastating occurrence. Plans, hopes and dreams crash and burn. When a miscarriage is followed by yet another, the trauma can be more than overwhelming. When a woman suffers from more than one miscarriage it is an indication there is an underlying fertility problem and it would be wise to seek out the help and counsel of a fertility specialist.
Some Facts About Miscarriage
Miscarriage, especially in the first trimester of the first pregnancy is not uncommon. It is estimated that between 15 and 20 percent of all pregnancies end in miscarriage with approximately 75 percent of them happening in the first 12 weeks. After one miscarriage, the risk of more often lowers. Conversely, after a second miscarriage, the risk rises and continues to do so with each miscarriage that follows.
The most commonly understood reason for a miscarriage in the first trimester is chromosomal abnormality - generally a one-time occurrence that probably will not affect future pregnancies. The estimates indicate that between 50 to 60 percent of all miscarriages that happen in the first trimester are the results of this issue. While chromosomal abnormality carries much weight, it is not the only cause of miscarriage. Other factors contribute largely to the loss of a pregnancy and many of these factors can be the contributing factor to multiple pregnancy losses if not treated effectively.
The Place of Hormones in Pregnancy
There's no question that hormonal levels are critical to a successful conception and pregnancy. If hormones are out of balance or abnormal, there can be problems with implantation and development of the endometrial lining. Thyroid problems, adrenal gland issues and diabetes all present increased risk of miscarriage for women with these conditions.
Reproductive Organ Health
Uterine and reproductive organ health plays a major part in pregnancy. A woman with an abnormally shaped uterus or a divided uterus (septum) often will not be able to carry a pregnancy to term. Surgery can rectify many of these types of problems. Infections, especially from STDs, can leave a woman's reproductive organs scarred and ineffective. Also, infections such as German measles can cause difficulties with the development of the baby sometimes initiating miscarriage.
Toxic Elements - Both Environmental and Lifestyle
Environmental toxins and harsh chemicals have been shown to have miscarriage inducing properties when a woman is exposed to them. Formaldehyde and lead, oxide, ethylene and benzene are well documented toxins which affect pregnant women. Lifestyle toxins can be equally dangerous. Alcohol, tobacco and recreational drugs all have a profound effect upon the developing baby and all have been linked to miscarriage.
Other Influences
In some women, the immune system reacts to pregnancy by fighting off the "intruder" and causing a miscarriage. Age is also a contributor to miscarriage. If a first pregnancy occurs after the age of 35, there is an increased risk for genetic problems and for pregnancy loss as well.
A weak cervix makes it almost impossible for woman to carry a pregnancy to term. The weight of the pregnancy, as it progresses, puts pressure on the cervix and if there is weakness in that area, it will not hold. Many women suffer with weak cervix issues which come to the fore in the later months of pregnancy, often causing early labor.
Seeking the help of a qualified fertility specialist can help to address the causes of miscarriage and hopefully result in a healthy pregnancy.
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