Miscarriage, or spontaneous abortion, refers to the end of pregnancy before the fetus is viable. About half of all pregnancies end in miscarriage. Often, this occurs before the woman knows she is pregnant. Most of the known pregnancies that end in miscarriage occur between and 9th and 11th week of pregnancy.
Causes of Miscarriage
Miscarriage that occurs during the first trimester are usually the result of the death of the fetus. This most commonly occurs as the result of developmental or genetic abnormalities that are lethal. Sometimes, anatomical or physiological uterine abnormalities that prevent the fertilized egg from growing normally can occur. Smoking may be a contributing factor. Chronic infections and unrecognized diabetes in the mother are also possible causes. During the second trimester miscarriage may be caused by uterine abnormalities that cause detachment of the fetus and placenta. Severe physiological or psychological stress may also contribute. Other causes of miscarriage that can occur anytime in the pregnancy include the use of substances that harm the fetus (cocaine, smoking); infections, especially virus infections (rubella or influenza); trauma and severe medical conditions, such as diabetes mellitus or hypertension.
Signs and Symptoms of Miscarriage
Miscarriage produces uterine cramps, and vaginal bleeding. The bleeding may be slight or heavy. Clots or portions of the fetus or placenta may be discharged through the vagina. Threatened miscarriages may have uterine cramps and bleeding. However, they terminate and the pregnancy continues to term.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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