Miscarriage / Pregnancy Loss: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Chemical Pregnancy
Despite the name, a chemical pregnancy is not a false pregnancy or a false positive on a pregnancy test -- it is a very early miscarriage. Doctors believe chemical pregnancies are usually caused by chromosomal abnormalities.
Despite the name, a chemical pregnancy is not a false pregnancy or a false positive on a pregnancy test -- it is a very early miscarriage. Doctors believe chemical pregnancies are usually caused by chromosomal abnormalities.
Signs of Miscarriage
Worried about miscarriage? Learn the signs and symptoms that may indicate pregnancy loss. If you experience vaginal bleeding or pain in your lower abdomen, or if you're in the second or third trimester and you are not feeling your baby move, be sure to call your doctor.
Worried about miscarriage? Learn the signs and symptoms that may indicate pregnancy loss. If you experience vaginal bleeding or pain in your lower abdomen, or if you're in the second or third trimester and you are not feeling your baby move, be sure to call your doctor.
Did I Have a Miscarriage?
Signs and symptoms of miscarriage are rarely definitive, especially for first-trimester miscarriage, and it is not always easy to tell for sure if you have had a miscarriage. Learn how to interpret your signs and symptoms, and find out what tests your doctor might use.
Signs and symptoms of miscarriage are rarely definitive, especially for first-trimester miscarriage, and it is not always easy to tell for sure if you have had a miscarriage. Learn how to interpret your signs and symptoms, and find out what tests your doctor might use.
Premature Birth and Viability
Most sources define the point of viability in pregnancy as being around 24 weeks. This is the point at which a baby has a decent chance of survival if born prematurely. Other factors, such as birth weight and treatment with steroids before birth, can also affect whether or not a premature baby survives.
Most sources define the point of viability in pregnancy as being around 24 weeks. This is the point at which a baby has a decent chance of survival if born prematurely. Other factors, such as birth weight and treatment with steroids before birth, can also affect whether or not a premature baby survives.
Early Miscarriage Signs
In early pregnancy, miscarriage symptoms would generally include spotting, vaginal bleeding, and possibly cramping. Doctors may call this a chemical pregnancy.
In early pregnancy, miscarriage symptoms would generally include spotting, vaginal bleeding, and possibly cramping. Doctors may call this a chemical pregnancy.
Miscarriage Statistics
Confused about miscarriage statistics? You're not alone. Here's how to make sense of the most commonly cited statistics about the risk of miscarriage.
Confused about miscarriage statistics? You're not alone. Here's how to make sense of the most commonly cited statistics about the risk of miscarriage.
Pregnancy Test Still Positive
It can take some time for your hCG levels to return to zero after you have had a miscarriage, so it is normal if you are still getting a positive pregnancy test in the first week or two following your miscarriage.
It can take some time for your hCG levels to return to zero after you have had a miscarriage, so it is normal if you are still getting a positive pregnancy test in the first week or two following your miscarriage.
Miscarriage and hCG Levels
In very early pregnancy, doctors may use serial quantitative hCG blood tests to compare levels of hCG over two to three days. This is a common means of investigating miscarriage symptoms to check whether or not a pregnancy is viable.
In very early pregnancy, doctors may use serial quantitative hCG blood tests to compare levels of hCG over two to three days. This is a common means of investigating miscarriage symptoms to check whether or not a pregnancy is viable.
First Trimester Miscarriage
First-trimester miscarriage, sometimes called spontaneous abortion, is very common but also heartbreaking for most moms. It's normal to have a lot of questions about signs of miscarriage, diagnosis, miscarriage causes, treatment, and risk factors. Find out answers here.
First-trimester miscarriage, sometimes called spontaneous abortion, is very common but also heartbreaking for most moms. It's normal to have a lot of questions about signs of miscarriage, diagnosis, miscarriage causes, treatment, and risk factors. Find out answers here.
Miscarriage Management Options
After diagnosing a miscarriage, your doctor may ask whether you want a D&C or whether you want to wait for the miscarriage to happen naturally. You may also have the option of taking medication to speed up the process. Each pregnancy loss treatment choice has pros and cons, and different women have different preferences.
After diagnosing a miscarriage, your doctor may ask whether you want a D&C or whether you want to wait for the miscarriage to happen naturally. You may also have the option of taking medication to speed up the process. Each pregnancy loss treatment choice has pros and cons, and different women have different preferences.
Pregnancy Cramps
Early pregnancy cramps frequently occur in normal pregnancies and are usually not a sign of problems, but in some cases it's a good idea to call your doctor to be on the safe side.
Early pregnancy cramps frequently occur in normal pregnancies and are usually not a sign of problems, but in some cases it's a good idea to call your doctor to be on the safe side.
Baby Not Moving
If you are worried your baby is not moving as much as usual or have other concerns about decreased fetal movement, call your doctor right away for advice.
If you are worried your baby is not moving as much as usual or have other concerns about decreased fetal movement, call your doctor right away for advice.
Miscarriage with No Bleeding
It is quite possible to be diagnosed with a miscarriage without having bleeding, cramping, or other obvious symptoms. A miscarriage with no bleeding usually means the diagnosis has come before the body has recognized that the baby has died.
It is quite possible to be diagnosed with a miscarriage without having bleeding, cramping, or other obvious symptoms. A miscarriage with no bleeding usually means the diagnosis has come before the body has recognized that the baby has died.
Baby Not Kicking
In the third trimester, sudden reduction of fetal movement can be an early warning sign of a problem. Learn how kick counts can help you screen for changes in your baby's movement patterns.
In the third trimester, sudden reduction of fetal movement can be an early warning sign of a problem. Learn how kick counts can help you screen for changes in your baby's movement patterns.
Sex After Miscarriage
Doctors usually advise abstaining from sexual activity for one to two weeks following a miscarriage because of increased chances of gynecological infections during the miscarriage bleeding. Be sure to consider contraception if you do not want to get pregnant again immediately.
Doctors usually advise abstaining from sexual activity for one to two weeks following a miscarriage because of increased chances of gynecological infections during the miscarriage bleeding. Be sure to consider contraception if you do not want to get pregnant again immediately.
Bleeding in Early Pregnancy
Spotting or bleeding in early pregnancy can be a symptom of miscarriage, but it does not always mean pregnancy loss. Call your doctor when concerned about possible signs of an early miscarriage.
Spotting or bleeding in early pregnancy can be a symptom of miscarriage, but it does not always mean pregnancy loss. Call your doctor when concerned about possible signs of an early miscarriage.
D&C for Miscarriage
A D&C, or dilation and curettage, is a treatment for diagnosed miscarriages in the first trimester. The surgery clears the uterus and ends the physical part of miscarriage, shortening bleeding times and avoiding a potentially long wait for miscarriage bleeding to begin.
A D&C, or dilation and curettage, is a treatment for diagnosed miscarriages in the first trimester. The surgery clears the uterus and ends the physical part of miscarriage, shortening bleeding times and avoiding a potentially long wait for miscarriage bleeding to begin.
Surprising Miscarriage Facts
Information about miscarriage is far more readily available than it used to be, thanks to the Internet, but here are some potentially surprising facts that you might not already know about miscarriage.
Information about miscarriage is far more readily available than it used to be, thanks to the Internet, but here are some potentially surprising facts that you might not already know about miscarriage.
Normal hCG Levels
It's hard to pinpoint a normal hCG level at any point in pregnancy, since what is normal varies by the person and the situation. Two hCG levels taken over two to three days will provide more useful information in terms of miscarriage symptoms than a single measurement.
It's hard to pinpoint a normal hCG level at any point in pregnancy, since what is normal varies by the person and the situation. Two hCG levels taken over two to three days will provide more useful information in terms of miscarriage symptoms than a single measurement.
What Causes Miscarriages?
Miscarriage causes are not well understood by the medical community, but if you have had a recent loss, you are probably curious what may have caused it. Read a short overview of the most common known and suspected factors that contribute to miscarriage and pregnancy loss.
Miscarriage causes are not well understood by the medical community, but if you have had a recent loss, you are probably curious what may have caused it. Read a short overview of the most common known and suspected factors that contribute to miscarriage and pregnancy loss.
Miscarriage Diagnosis Tools
Worried about miscarriage? If you are experiencing vaginal bleeding or other miscarriage symptoms, learn about the tests doctors use to diagnose pregnancy losses, such as hCG doubling times, transvaginal ultrasounds, and fetal heart rate monitoring.
Worried about miscarriage? If you are experiencing vaginal bleeding or other miscarriage symptoms, learn about the tests doctors use to diagnose pregnancy losses, such as hCG doubling times, transvaginal ultrasounds, and fetal heart rate monitoring.
FAQs on hCG Levels
In early pregnancy, doctors often use serial tests of the pregnancy hormone hCG to gather clues about how the pregnancy is progressing. Sometimes, checking whether or not the hCG level is going up or down can provide information about whether or not a woman will miscarry, especially if she has miscarriage symptoms. But if you're not a doctor, early pregnancy hCG levels can be confusing.
In early pregnancy, doctors often use serial tests of the pregnancy hormone hCG to gather clues about how the pregnancy is progressing. Sometimes, checking whether or not the hCG level is going up or down can provide information about whether or not a woman will miscarry, especially if she has miscarriage symptoms. But if you're not a doctor, early pregnancy hCG levels can be confusing.
Subchorionic Hematoma
Bleeding during pregnancy can be a sign of miscarriage but another possible explanation is a subchorionic hematoma, a type of bleeding between the placenta and the wall of the uterus. A pregnancy with a subchorionic hematoma faces an increased risk of miscarriage but can also go on to be viable.
Bleeding during pregnancy can be a sign of miscarriage but another possible explanation is a subchorionic hematoma, a type of bleeding between the placenta and the wall of the uterus. A pregnancy with a subchorionic hematoma faces an increased risk of miscarriage but can also go on to be viable.
No Fetal Pole
The fetal pole is the early developing baby when it first becomes visible in the uterus on an ultrasound. Usually an ultrasound will pick up the fetal pole by 5 to 6 weeks gestational age. If there's an empty gestational sac, it might be a miscarriage but might also be the pregnancy is just not far enough along to see the fetal pole.
The fetal pole is the early developing baby when it first becomes visible in the uterus on an ultrasound. Usually an ultrasound will pick up the fetal pole by 5 to 6 weeks gestational age. If there's an empty gestational sac, it might be a miscarriage but might also be the pregnancy is just not far enough along to see the fetal pole.
Missed Miscarriage
A missed miscarriage is a pregnancy loss, usually in the first trimester, in which the doctor diagnoses the miscarriage based on lab results or other clinical evidence but the woman has not have definite miscarriage symptoms.
A missed miscarriage is a pregnancy loss, usually in the first trimester, in which the doctor diagnoses the miscarriage based on lab results or other clinical evidence but the woman has not have definite miscarriage symptoms.
Miscarriage Process
By the time miscarriage symptoms appear, what is happening in the body during a miscarriage is that the body has recognized a nonviable pregnancy and begun shedding the uterine lining. In the majority of cases, the baby's heartbeat has already stopped before the physical process begins.
By the time miscarriage symptoms appear, what is happening in the body during a miscarriage is that the body has recognized a nonviable pregnancy and begun shedding the uterine lining. In the majority of cases, the baby's heartbeat has already stopped before the physical process begins.
Miscarriage Myths
There's a lot of confusing information about miscarriage causes and risk factors, and no one seems to quite agree on what's myth and what's truth. Here is your guide to the real story on various claims about what can and cannot cause a miscarriage.
There's a lot of confusing information about miscarriage causes and risk factors, and no one seems to quite agree on what's myth and what's truth. Here is your guide to the real story on various claims about what can and cannot cause a miscarriage.
Basic Miscarriage Statistics
The vast majority of miscarriages happen in early pregnancy. The statistics suggest that the risk of pregnancy loss goes down significantly after 12 weeks. Seeing a heartbeat on an ultrasound also puts the pregnancy into a lower risk category.
The vast majority of miscarriages happen in early pregnancy. The statistics suggest that the risk of pregnancy loss goes down significantly after 12 weeks. Seeing a heartbeat on an ultrasound also puts the pregnancy into a lower risk category.
Understanding Blighted Ovum
A blighted ovum is a miscarriage in which the baby does not develop, but a gestational sac continues to grow and the woman may continue to experience pregnancy symptoms. A blighted ovum can be a missed miscarriage treated via D & C or may end naturally.
A blighted ovum is a miscarriage in which the baby does not develop, but a gestational sac continues to grow and the woman may continue to experience pregnancy symptoms. A blighted ovum can be a missed miscarriage treated via D & C or may end naturally.
Loss of Pregnancy Symptoms
Pregnancy symptoms can fade, fluctuate, or disappear entirely even in a normal pregnancy -- so loss of pregnancy symptoms of disappearing morning sickness is not necessarily a miscarriage symptom.
Pregnancy symptoms can fade, fluctuate, or disappear entirely even in a normal pregnancy -- so loss of pregnancy symptoms of disappearing morning sickness is not necessarily a miscarriage symptom.
Progesterone
Progesterone supplements are often used to treat women who have low progesterone levels and who have a history of recurrent miscarriages, but the supplements are the subject of controversy. Learn why some doctors prescribe progesterone for recurrent miscarriages and others do not.
Progesterone supplements are often used to treat women who have low progesterone levels and who have a history of recurrent miscarriages, but the supplements are the subject of controversy. Learn why some doctors prescribe progesterone for recurrent miscarriages and others do not.
No Fetal Heartbeat
Naturally it is quite scary to be told your baby has no heartbeat. But on an early ultrasound, it can be normal to see no fetal heartbeat, although it can also be a sign of missed miscarriage or blighted ovum.
Naturally it is quite scary to be told your baby has no heartbeat. But on an early ultrasound, it can be normal to see no fetal heartbeat, although it can also be a sign of missed miscarriage or blighted ovum.
Bleeding After Miscarriage
The number of days of vaginal bleeding after a miscarriage varies for each woman, but it should stop within about two weeks of the pregnancy loss in most cases.
The number of days of vaginal bleeding after a miscarriage varies for each woman, but it should stop within about two weeks of the pregnancy loss in most cases.
Ectopic Pregnancy
Ectopic pregnancies, sometimes called tubal pregnancies, happen when a fertilized egg implants someplace other than in the uterus, such as the fallopian tubes. Symptoms of ectopic pregnancy include severe abdominal cramping and dizziness.
Ectopic pregnancies, sometimes called tubal pregnancies, happen when a fertilized egg implants someplace other than in the uterus, such as the fallopian tubes. Symptoms of ectopic pregnancy include severe abdominal cramping and dizziness.
Chances of Second Miscarriage
The scariest part of trying again after a pregnancy loss is facing the chances of a second miscarriage. Usually the odds of miscarriage don't increase much after having just one previous miscarriage.
The scariest part of trying again after a pregnancy loss is facing the chances of a second miscarriage. Usually the odds of miscarriage don't increase much after having just one previous miscarriage.
Incomplete Miscarriage
A miscarriage is labeled "incomplete" if the bleeding has begun and the cervix is dilated, but tissue
A miscarriage is labeled "incomplete" if the bleeding has begun and the cervix is dilated, but tissue
Infection After Miscarriage
Whether women choose D & C, natural miscarriage, or medically expedited management after receiving a miscarriage diagnosis, there is a small chance that retained tissue in the uterus could lead to an infection. Learn the symptoms of a post-miscarriage infection.
Whether women choose D & C, natural miscarriage, or medically expedited management after receiving a miscarriage diagnosis, there is a small chance that retained tissue in the uterus could lead to an infection. Learn the symptoms of a post-miscarriage infection.
Pregnant with IUD
IUDs are usually effective at preventing pregnancy, but if you become pregnant with an IUD, tell your doctor right away. Ectopic pregnancy needs to be ruled out, and there's an elevated risk of miscarriage and other complications. The IUD will probably need to be removed immediately.
IUDs are usually effective at preventing pregnancy, but if you become pregnant with an IUD, tell your doctor right away. Ectopic pregnancy needs to be ruled out, and there's an elevated risk of miscarriage and other complications. The IUD will probably need to be removed immediately.
Threatened Miscarriage
Doctors use the term threatened miscarriage for women who experience bleeding in pregnancy (or other miscarriage symptoms) but the cervix is still closed. In these cases, finding out whether or not the signs mean miscarriage might mean waiting a few days to a week for hCG or ultrasound test results.
Doctors use the term threatened miscarriage for women who experience bleeding in pregnancy (or other miscarriage symptoms) but the cervix is still closed. In these cases, finding out whether or not the signs mean miscarriage might mean waiting a few days to a week for hCG or ultrasound test results.
Miscarriage After Heartbeat
The risk of miscarriage drops after a doctor is able to detect the baby's heartbeat on an ultrasound, but the amount of decreased risk depends on other risk factors. Find out the different statistics for pregnancy loss after seeing a heartbeat.
The risk of miscarriage drops after a doctor is able to detect the baby's heartbeat on an ultrasound, but the amount of decreased risk depends on other risk factors. Find out the different statistics for pregnancy loss after seeing a heartbeat.
Baby Aspirin and Miscarriages
Baby aspirin, or low-dose aspirin, is a possible treatment of recurrent miscarriages. Right now, there is evidence that using baby aspirin in pregnancy helps women with blood clotting disorders when used along with heparin. Researchers are investigating whether it might help women without diagnosed thrombophilia disorders.
Baby aspirin, or low-dose aspirin, is a possible treatment of recurrent miscarriages. Right now, there is evidence that using baby aspirin in pregnancy helps women with blood clotting disorders when used along with heparin. Researchers are investigating whether it might help women without diagnosed thrombophilia disorders.
Misoprostol for Miscarriage
Medication can be an alternative to D&C for managing a missed or incomplete miscarriage when the woman prefers not to wait for a natural miscarriage.
Medication can be an alternative to D&C for managing a missed or incomplete miscarriage when the woman prefers not to wait for a natural miscarriage.
Quotes About Loss
A collection of quotes for parents to use in announcements, memorial services, or other creative memorials. Quotes from poetry, prose, famous people, Scripture, and other sources.
A collection of quotes for parents to use in announcements, memorial services, or other creative memorials. Quotes from poetry, prose, famous people, Scripture, and other sources.
Constipation-Diarrhea
The cramping and abdominal pain associated with diarrhea and constipation can feel like your pregnancy is in danger. Learn the facts about changes in your bowel habits while you're pregnant.
The cramping and abdominal pain associated with diarrhea and constipation can feel like your pregnancy is in danger. Learn the facts about changes in your bowel habits while you're pregnant.
Miscarriage Tissue
One particularly troubling aspect of having a miscarriage can be the experience of passing tissue or large blot clots during the associated vaginal bleeding. The miscarriage tissue may or may not be recognizable, depending on how far along the pregnancy was at the time of the miscarriage.
One particularly troubling aspect of having a miscarriage can be the experience of passing tissue or large blot clots during the associated vaginal bleeding. The miscarriage tissue may or may not be recognizable, depending on how far along the pregnancy was at the time of the miscarriage.
Stillbirth Causes and Coping
If you have had a stillbirth, or if you are trying to support someone through a stillbirth, this article contains answers to the most common questions about why stillbirths happen and issues that arise in the aftermath of having a stillborn baby.
If you have had a stillbirth, or if you are trying to support someone through a stillbirth, this article contains answers to the most common questions about why stillbirths happen and issues that arise in the aftermath of having a stillborn baby.
Stomach Pains
Stomach pains, in the true sense of the word, are usually not a miscarriage symptom. The cramps associated with miscarriage are more likely to be centered in the lower abdomen or lower back. However, stomach pains should be mentioned to a doctor, and call a doctor right away if pains are severe, as ectopic pregnancy should be ruled out.
Stomach pains, in the true sense of the word, are usually not a miscarriage symptom. The cramps associated with miscarriage are more likely to be centered in the lower abdomen or lower back. However, stomach pains should be mentioned to a doctor, and call a doctor right away if pains are severe, as ectopic pregnancy should be ruled out.
Still Have Pregnancy Symptoms
It can take some time for your hormone levels to return to normal following a miscarriage, so it is not uncommon to still feel pregnancy symptoms for a few weeks after a miscarriage.
It can take some time for your hormone levels to return to normal following a miscarriage, so it is not uncommon to still feel pregnancy symptoms for a few weeks after a miscarriage.
Inducing a Miscarriage
If you are searching for information on how to cause a miscarriage, force a miscarriage, or induce a miscarriage, please read this first and be sure to keep your safety in mind.
If you are searching for information on how to cause a miscarriage, force a miscarriage, or induce a miscarriage, please read this first and be sure to keep your safety in mind.
Birth Control and Miscarriage
There is conflicting research on whether long-term use of oral contraceptives increases the risk of miscarriage in a future pregnancy. Researchers do not yet know the answer. Pregnancies accidentally conceived while on birth control do not seem at increased risk.
There is conflicting research on whether long-term use of oral contraceptives increases the risk of miscarriage in a future pregnancy. Researchers do not yet know the answer. Pregnancies accidentally conceived while on birth control do not seem at increased risk.
Period After D&C
The wait for the return of your period after D&C can be frustrating, especially if you are hoping to begin trying to conceive after a miscarriage. Find out the normal time for resumption of menstruation and what to do if you haven't had a period within a few months.
The wait for the return of your period after D&C can be frustrating, especially if you are hoping to begin trying to conceive after a miscarriage. Find out the normal time for resumption of menstruation and what to do if you haven't had a period within a few months.
Miscarriage Rates
There are so many statistics floating around out there on miscarriage rates. Which are the most accurate?
There are so many statistics floating around out there on miscarriage rates. Which are the most accurate?
Triploidy
Triploidy means that an individual has three copies of every chromosome instead of two. The disorder is always fatal. Most pregnancies affected by triploidy will miscarry and the occasional babies who are born with triploidy usually die in their first month of life.
Triploidy means that an individual has three copies of every chromosome instead of two. The disorder is always fatal. Most pregnancies affected by triploidy will miscarry and the occasional babies who are born with triploidy usually die in their first month of life.
Ultrasounds and Due Dates
Sometimes the due dates estimated by an early ultrasound don't match the expected due date based on the last menstrual period. This is usually not a sign of a problem with the pregnancy.
Sometimes the due dates estimated by an early ultrasound don't match the expected due date based on the last menstrual period. This is usually not a sign of a problem with the pregnancy.
Bicornuate Uterus
A bicornuate, or heart-shaped, uterus is one type of congenital uterine malformation that can be associated with pregnancy loss, although not usually first-trimester miscarriages. Septate uteri are frequently misdiagnosed as bicornuate uteri.
A bicornuate, or heart-shaped, uterus is one type of congenital uterine malformation that can be associated with pregnancy loss, although not usually first-trimester miscarriages. Septate uteri are frequently misdiagnosed as bicornuate uteri.
Miscarriages and the ER
Miscarriage symptoms, such as vaginal bleeding or spotting in early pregnancy, often send women to the emergency room. Sadly, however, emergency room doctors can almost never do anything to stop a miscarriage that's in progress.
Miscarriage symptoms, such as vaginal bleeding or spotting in early pregnancy, often send women to the emergency room. Sadly, however, emergency room doctors can almost never do anything to stop a miscarriage that's in progress.
Stillbirth Causes
Women who experience a late miscarriage or stillbirth usually want to know why it happened, but stillbirth causes can be hard to pinpoint. There are some factors known to cause or increase risk of stillbirth, but most of these devastating losses are never explained.
Women who experience a late miscarriage or stillbirth usually want to know why it happened, but stillbirth causes can be hard to pinpoint. There are some factors known to cause or increase risk of stillbirth, but most of these devastating losses are never explained.
Second Trimester Miscarriages
Late miscarriages, such as those in the second trimester, can happen for a number of reasons. Causes might be chromosomal abnormalities, cervical insufficiency, congenital birth defects, placental problems, or other factors.
Late miscarriages, such as those in the second trimester, can happen for a number of reasons. Causes might be chromosomal abnormalities, cervical insufficiency, congenital birth defects, placental problems, or other factors.
Reasons for Miscarriage
It's not easy to identify the reason for a miscarriage. In many cases, the cause may never be found. Most first trimester miscarriages occur because of chromosomal abnormalities, but some may also occur due to infections, chronic health conditions, or unexplained reasons.
It's not easy to identify the reason for a miscarriage. In many cases, the cause may never be found. Most first trimester miscarriages occur because of chromosomal abnormalities, but some may also occur due to infections, chronic health conditions, or unexplained reasons.
What Spotting Looks Like
Spotting is a lay term for light vaginal bleeding during pregnancy. Pregnancy spotting that is light in quantity and color is more likely to mean implantation bleeding or other non-worrisome causes, whereas bleeding that is heavier and like a menstrual period, is more likely to be miscarriage bleeding.
Spotting is a lay term for light vaginal bleeding during pregnancy. Pregnancy spotting that is light in quantity and color is more likely to mean implantation bleeding or other non-worrisome causes, whereas bleeding that is heavier and like a menstrual period, is more likely to be miscarriage bleeding.
No Yolk Sac
When an ultrasound shows no yolk sac inside the gestational sac, the pregnancy is either too early for the yolk sac to be seen or a miscarriage has occurred.
When an ultrasound shows no yolk sac inside the gestational sac, the pregnancy is either too early for the yolk sac to be seen or a miscarriage has occurred.
Slow Fetal Heart Rate
A slow heart rate in a developing baby is cause for concern, but it's impossible to tell without waiting for a followup ultrasound whether the pregnancy will end in miscarriage or continue to term.
A slow heart rate in a developing baby is cause for concern, but it's impossible to tell without waiting for a followup ultrasound whether the pregnancy will end in miscarriage or continue to term.
Why Genes Cause Miscarriage
Miscarriages are usually blamed on chromosomal abnormalities, but why exactly do problems in the chromosomes lead to miscarriage in some cases while babies can be born with chromosomal disorders in other cases? Researchers aren't 100% sure.
Miscarriages are usually blamed on chromosomal abnormalities, but why exactly do problems in the chromosomes lead to miscarriage in some cases while babies can be born with chromosomal disorders in other cases? Researchers aren't 100% sure.
Cramping in Early Pregnancy
Many women worry about cramping during pregnancy. Although early pregnancy cramps can occur in a miscarriage, mild cramping on its own is not necessarily a sign or symptom of miscarriage. Severe abdominal cramping, however, can be an ectopic pregnancy symptom. Cramping accompanied by vaginal bleeding is more likely to mean a miscarriage.
Many women worry about cramping during pregnancy. Although early pregnancy cramps can occur in a miscarriage, mild cramping on its own is not necessarily a sign or symptom of miscarriage. Severe abdominal cramping, however, can be an ectopic pregnancy symptom. Cramping accompanied by vaginal bleeding is more likely to mean a miscarriage.
Low hCG Levels
Doctors often check levels of hCG, a pregnancy hormone, to investigate miscarriage symptoms in early pregnancy. Low levels of hCG in two consecutive hCG blood tests can be a cause for concern, but a single low level does not give much information on whether or not the pregnancy is viable.
Doctors often check levels of hCG, a pregnancy hormone, to investigate miscarriage symptoms in early pregnancy. Low levels of hCG in two consecutive hCG blood tests can be a cause for concern, but a single low level does not give much information on whether or not the pregnancy is viable.
False Negative Pregnancy Test
False negative pregnancy tests are a definite possibility if you are trying to test before your menstrual period is due, but by the time your period is late, a pregnancy test should show a positive if you are pregnant. Getting a negative pregnancy test after having had a positive could be a sign of early miscarriage.
False negative pregnancy tests are a definite possibility if you are trying to test before your menstrual period is due, but by the time your period is late, a pregnancy test should show a positive if you are pregnant. Getting a negative pregnancy test after having had a positive could be a sign of early miscarriage.
Ultrasound for Miscarriage
Ultrasounds are a common test for suspected pregnancy loss or threatened miscarriage. By using an ultrasound, a doctor can get an image of the gestational sac and the developing baby's heartbeat in order to determine whether or not the pregnancy is viable.
Ultrasounds are a common test for suspected pregnancy loss or threatened miscarriage. By using an ultrasound, a doctor can get an image of the gestational sac and the developing baby's heartbeat in order to determine whether or not the pregnancy is viable.
Early Pregnancy Ultrasound
Although widely considered the most accurate means of dating an early pregnancy, ultrasound results can be confusing when trying to confirm or rule out a miscarriage. Let's take a look at what you can and cannot determine from an ultrasound in early pregnancy, and whether an empty gestational sac or no fetal heartbeat means miscarriage.
Although widely considered the most accurate means of dating an early pregnancy, ultrasound results can be confusing when trying to confirm or rule out a miscarriage. Let's take a look at what you can and cannot determine from an ultrasound in early pregnancy, and whether an empty gestational sac or no fetal heartbeat means miscarriage.
Alcohol and Miscarriage
Alcohol and pregnancy doesn't mix, and drinking during pregnancy can cause numerous problems. Occasionally drinking alcohol doesn't seem to be linked to miscarriage specifically. Regular alcohol intake may be linked with miscarriage risk.
Alcohol and pregnancy doesn't mix, and drinking during pregnancy can cause numerous problems. Occasionally drinking alcohol doesn't seem to be linked to miscarriage specifically. Regular alcohol intake may be linked with miscarriage risk.
Ultrasound & Baby's Heartbeat
An ultrasound is an accurate tool for finding the baby's heartbeat as long as the pregnancy is far enough along for the heartbeat to be visible. When an ultrasound finds no fetal heartbeat in a pregnancy that is definitely beyond 7 or 8 weeks of gestation, the results always mean miscarriage.
An ultrasound is an accurate tool for finding the baby's heartbeat as long as the pregnancy is far enough along for the heartbeat to be visible. When an ultrasound finds no fetal heartbeat in a pregnancy that is definitely beyond 7 or 8 weeks of gestation, the results always mean miscarriage.
Roller Coasters and Pregnancy
Riding a roller coaster before you find out that you are pregnant is not likely to cause a first-trimester miscarriage, but to be on the safe side, it is best to avoid riding the roller coaster after you learn of your pregnancy.
Riding a roller coaster before you find out that you are pregnant is not likely to cause a first-trimester miscarriage, but to be on the safe side, it is best to avoid riding the roller coaster after you learn of your pregnancy.
Adhesions Symptoms
D&Cs usually don't cause serious complications, but it's possible to develop adhesions or scarring in the uterus, which can then lead to infertility or multiple miscarriages.
D&Cs usually don't cause serious complications, but it's possible to develop adhesions or scarring in the uterus, which can then lead to infertility or multiple miscarriages.
Signs of Ectopic Pregnancy
Early symptoms of tubal pregnancy might be mild cramping in the lower abdomen or spotting in early pregnancy. Women should call their doctors if concerned. Anyone having symptoms of a possible ruptured ectopic pregnancy should head for the emergency room.
Early symptoms of tubal pregnancy might be mild cramping in the lower abdomen or spotting in early pregnancy. Women should call their doctors if concerned. Anyone having symptoms of a possible ruptured ectopic pregnancy should head for the emergency room.
Miscarriage and Rh Status
Women who are Rh negative often wonder if they need Rh immune globulin, such as RhoGAM, after having first-trimester miscarriages or ectopic pregnancies. Most doctors recommend RhoGAM shots to women after miscarriage because of theoretical risk of Rh sensitization.
Women who are Rh negative often wonder if they need Rh immune globulin, such as RhoGAM, after having first-trimester miscarriages or ectopic pregnancies. Most doctors recommend RhoGAM shots to women after miscarriage because of theoretical risk of Rh sensitization.
Miscarriage Gifts
Looking for a good gift for someone who has had a miscarriage or stillbirth? Pregnancy loss cards, miscarriage jewelry, charitable donations, and planting a tree are all good ideas for how to offer show sympathy and honor your friend, coworker, or relative's baby.
Looking for a good gift for someone who has had a miscarriage or stillbirth? Pregnancy loss cards, miscarriage jewelry, charitable donations, and planting a tree are all good ideas for how to offer show sympathy and honor your friend, coworker, or relative's baby.
Miscarriage Complications
Most of the time, a first-trimester miscarriage doesn't lead to serious long-term physical problems, but sometimes complications can arise.
Most of the time, a first-trimester miscarriage doesn't lead to serious long-term physical problems, but sometimes complications can arise.
Ultrasound and Miscarriage
Ultrasound results in early pregnancy can be confusing -- sometimes it is not clear whether the results mean a blighted ovum or missed miscarriage or simply early stages of a normal pregnancy. Learn what one medical body uses as criteria for diagnosing miscarriage from an ultrasound.
Ultrasound results in early pregnancy can be confusing -- sometimes it is not clear whether the results mean a blighted ovum or missed miscarriage or simply early stages of a normal pregnancy. Learn what one medical body uses as criteria for diagnosing miscarriage from an ultrasound.
Ectopic Pregnancy Viability
An ectopic pregnancy, sometimes called a tubal pregnancy, must be terminated nearly 100% of the time in order to prevent major health risks to the mother. Untreated ectopic pregnancies that rupture may be fatal.
An ectopic pregnancy, sometimes called a tubal pregnancy, must be terminated nearly 100% of the time in order to prevent major health risks to the mother. Untreated ectopic pregnancies that rupture may be fatal.
When hCG Levels Drop
Drops in hCG levels in early pregnancy and during the first trimester are usually not a good sign; this can be a sign of impending miscarriage. In rare cases, hCG levels might fluctuate because of a condition called vanishing twin syndrome.
Drops in hCG levels in early pregnancy and during the first trimester are usually not a good sign; this can be a sign of impending miscarriage. In rare cases, hCG levels might fluctuate because of a condition called vanishing twin syndrome.
Smoking and Miscarriage
Smoking in pregnancy is one of the few miscarriage risk factors that is under your control. Evidence suggests that smoking and even exposure to secondhand smoke can increase the risk of miscarriage or stillbirth.
Smoking in pregnancy is one of the few miscarriage risk factors that is under your control. Evidence suggests that smoking and even exposure to secondhand smoke can increase the risk of miscarriage or stillbirth.
Natural Miscarriage
When miscarriage does not involve a medical emergency, women sometimes can choose which type of medical management they prefer, and some women prefer to let nature take its course and miscarry without any type of intervention. Choosing this approach has definite pros and cons.
When miscarriage does not involve a medical emergency, women sometimes can choose which type of medical management they prefer, and some women prefer to let nature take its course and miscarry without any type of intervention. Choosing this approach has definite pros and cons.
Gestational Sac on Ultrasound
Find out when the gestational sac is supposed to become visible on an early pregnancy ultrasound.
Find out when the gestational sac is supposed to become visible on an early pregnancy ultrasound.
Early Miscarriage
Signs and symptoms of an early miscarriage would include bleeding after a positive pregnancy test, cramping, and possibly loss of pregnancy symptoms. Find out what to do if you think you are having an early miscarriage.
Signs and symptoms of an early miscarriage would include bleeding after a positive pregnancy test, cramping, and possibly loss of pregnancy symptoms. Find out what to do if you think you are having an early miscarriage.
Recurrent Miscarriage Tests
Women who have had multiple miscarriages should see a doctor for testing for possible causes. About half the time, doctors can find a possibly treatable medical problem that may have caused the recurrent miscarriages.
Women who have had multiple miscarriages should see a doctor for testing for possible causes. About half the time, doctors can find a possibly treatable medical problem that may have caused the recurrent miscarriages.
No Gestational Sac
What does it mean when an early pregnancy ultrasound shows no gestational sac in the uterus? Possible explanations could be ectopic pregnancy, early miscarriage, or a normal pregnancy that is still in very early stages.
What does it mean when an early pregnancy ultrasound shows no gestational sac in the uterus? Possible explanations could be ectopic pregnancy, early miscarriage, or a normal pregnancy that is still in very early stages.
Find Your Miscarriage Risk
Many women wonder when the odds of miscarriage go down, but the truth is that there isn't one single answer for all women. Miscarriage statistics vary by groups and factors. Figure out your miscarriage risk with these steps.
Many women wonder when the odds of miscarriage go down, but the truth is that there isn't one single answer for all women. Miscarriage statistics vary by groups and factors. Figure out your miscarriage risk with these steps.
Recurrent Miscarriage Causes
Recurrent miscarriages may have a variety of causes, ranging from anatomical/uterine problems to autoimmune disorders to hormonal imbalances. The medical community does not always agree on some theorized miscarriage causes. This article offers an overview of the different factors thought to play a role in recurrent pregnancy loss.
Recurrent miscarriages may have a variety of causes, ranging from anatomical/uterine problems to autoimmune disorders to hormonal imbalances. The medical community does not always agree on some theorized miscarriage causes. This article offers an overview of the different factors thought to play a role in recurrent pregnancy loss.
Menstruation After Miscarriage
Resumption of menstruation after miscarriage depends on the individual. Some women will have a period within a month while others might have to wait two to three months before menstrual periods resume. Here are common questions about menstrual periods after miscarriage.
Resumption of menstruation after miscarriage depends on the individual. Some women will have a period within a month while others might have to wait two to three months before menstrual periods resume. Here are common questions about menstrual periods after miscarriage.
Pregnant After Miscarriage
Theoretically it may be possible to conceive and get pregnant again a mere two weeks after a miscarriage, but menstruation resumes at different types for different women. You should use contraception if you do not want to be pregnant again right away or if your doctor has advised you to wait.
Theoretically it may be possible to conceive and get pregnant again a mere two weeks after a miscarriage, but menstruation resumes at different types for different women. You should use contraception if you do not want to be pregnant again right away or if your doctor has advised you to wait.
Waiting for a Miscarriage
When doctors diagnose a miscarriage, it's impossible to say exactly how long it will take until the process is complete -- but for the majority of women, it will be over within two weeks after the diagnosis. A missed miscarriage or blighted ovum might take longer to miscarry.
When doctors diagnose a miscarriage, it's impossible to say exactly how long it will take until the process is complete -- but for the majority of women, it will be over within two weeks after the diagnosis. A missed miscarriage or blighted ovum might take longer to miscarry.
Coping with Pregnancy Loss
Miscarriage grief may feel overwhelming, especially in the initial aftermath of the pregnancy loss. You may face anxiety, anger, depression, or any number of feelings. You might find your relationship strained and you might feel reluctant to face the world. Specific coping tips may help you deal with your feelings about your miscarriage.
Miscarriage grief may feel overwhelming, especially in the initial aftermath of the pregnancy loss. You may face anxiety, anger, depression, or any number of feelings. You might find your relationship strained and you might feel reluctant to face the world. Specific coping tips may help you deal with your feelings about your miscarriage.
Physical Recovery
Recovery from a miscarriage or stillbirth will be different depending on the point in pregnancy when the pregnancy loss occurred and whether or not you had a D&C. In all losses, you will probably be advised to avoid sexual intercourse and tampons for at least two weeks and you will need a RhoGAM shot if you are Rh negative.
Recovery from a miscarriage or stillbirth will be different depending on the point in pregnancy when the pregnancy loss occurred and whether or not you had a D&C. In all losses, you will probably be advised to avoid sexual intercourse and tampons for at least two weeks and you will need a RhoGAM shot if you are Rh negative.
Conceive After Miscarriage
Although it is always best to discuss your pregnancy plans with a doctor, there's no solid evidence that it is necessary to wait a set amount of time before trying to conceive after a miscarriage, especially if the miscarriage happened very early in the pregnancy.
Although it is always best to discuss your pregnancy plans with a doctor, there's no solid evidence that it is necessary to wait a set amount of time before trying to conceive after a miscarriage, especially if the miscarriage happened very early in the pregnancy.
Sperm Miscarriage
Chromosome abnormalities are widely recognized as the leading cause of early miscarriages, and the problem usually originates before fertilization. Is it possible that the sperm could be the source of miscarriage-causing chromosome abnormalities? Can men affect the chromosomal integrity of their sperm?
Chromosome abnormalities are widely recognized as the leading cause of early miscarriages, and the problem usually originates before fertilization. Is it possible that the sperm could be the source of miscarriage-causing chromosome abnormalities? Can men affect the chromosomal integrity of their sperm?
Ectopic hCG Levels
Research shows that slow-rising hCG levels that are not doubling every two to three days may mean a greater risk of ectopic pregnancy. But ectopic hCG levels are not always clear, and slow rising hCG can occur for other reasons.
Research shows that slow-rising hCG levels that are not doubling every two to three days may mean a greater risk of ectopic pregnancy. But ectopic hCG levels are not always clear, and slow rising hCG can occur for other reasons.
Falling During Pregnancy
Even though it happens in movies, falling down during the first trimester is not likely to cause a miscarriage. A fall or other physical trauma, such as a car accident in the second or third trimester, however, could cause pregnancy loss.
Even though it happens in movies, falling down during the first trimester is not likely to cause a miscarriage. A fall or other physical trauma, such as a car accident in the second or third trimester, however, could cause pregnancy loss.
Septate Uterus
Having a septate uterus is a risk factor for recurrent miscarriages and preterm birth, and many doctors believe that treatment of a uterine septum can improve odds of having a successful pregnancy.
Having a septate uterus is a risk factor for recurrent miscarriages and preterm birth, and many doctors believe that treatment of a uterine septum can improve odds of having a successful pregnancy.
Normal Fetal Heart Rate
The normal fetal heart rate can vary by the point in the pregnancy. When ultrasound detects a slow fetal heart rate, this may mean higher risk of miscarriage, but a rapid fetal heart rate does not increase the odds of miscarriage or other pregnancy complications.
The normal fetal heart rate can vary by the point in the pregnancy. When ultrasound detects a slow fetal heart rate, this may mean higher risk of miscarriage, but a rapid fetal heart rate does not increase the odds of miscarriage or other pregnancy complications.
Normal Cramping
The amount of pain and lower abdominal cramping during a first trimester miscarriage tends to vary by how far along the pregnancy was when the miscarriage happened and other individual circumstances. Severe pain could by a symptom of ectopic pregnancy.
The amount of pain and lower abdominal cramping during a first trimester miscarriage tends to vary by how far along the pregnancy was when the miscarriage happened and other individual circumstances. Severe pain could by a symptom of ectopic pregnancy.
Miscarriage Risk Factor Stats
Many miscarriage statistics focus on women overall, but certain groups face higher risk of miscarriage than others because of pre-existing risk factors. Find out the rates of pregnancy loss for specific groups.
Many miscarriage statistics focus on women overall, but certain groups face higher risk of miscarriage than others because of pre-existing risk factors. Find out the rates of pregnancy loss for specific groups.
10 Things to Reduce Risk
Most pregnancy losses are caused by random chromosomal abnormalities, but there are still ways to reduce your chances of having a miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant death. Learn about simple things you can do now to control your risks and increase your chance of a healthy pregnancy.
Most pregnancy losses are caused by random chromosomal abnormalities, but there are still ways to reduce your chances of having a miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant death. Learn about simple things you can do now to control your risks and increase your chance of a healthy pregnancy.
Miscarriage Symptoms
Spotting or bleeding in early pregnancy is often the first sign of a miscarriage, but there may also be other signs of an impending miscarriage, such as falling hCG levels.
Spotting or bleeding in early pregnancy is often the first sign of a miscarriage, but there may also be other signs of an impending miscarriage, such as falling hCG levels.
Doctors and Miscarriage
It's always best to see a doctor if you're having a miscarriage, but what if you don't have health insurance or if your deductible is high? Is it absolutely necessary to go to the doctor?
It's always best to see a doctor if you're having a miscarriage, but what if you don't have health insurance or if your deductible is high? Is it absolutely necessary to go to the doctor?
Rh- Mothers and Miscarriage
Rh negative women who suffer miscarriages often wonder whether their Rh status might have been responsible. Although Rh sensitization can cause problems later in pregnancy and can increase risk of stillbirth, Rh sensitization does not typically cause first-trimester miscarriages.
Rh negative women who suffer miscarriages often wonder whether their Rh status might have been responsible. Although Rh sensitization can cause problems later in pregnancy and can increase risk of stillbirth, Rh sensitization does not typically cause first-trimester miscarriages.
Reasons for Bleeding
Somewhere around 30% of all pregnant women have some sort of bleeding during pregnancy, most commonly in the first trimester. Although miscarriage is one possible explanation for first-trimester bleeding, it isn't the only possible reason.
Somewhere around 30% of all pregnant women have some sort of bleeding during pregnancy, most commonly in the first trimester. Although miscarriage is one possible explanation for first-trimester bleeding, it isn't the only possible reason.
Diagnosing Ectopic Pregnancy
It's not always obvious when a pregnancy is ectopic, and many people do not have symptoms until the tubal pregnancy has become an emergency. Here is how doctors determine whether a pregnancy is ectopic.
It's not always obvious when a pregnancy is ectopic, and many people do not have symptoms until the tubal pregnancy has become an emergency. Here is how doctors determine whether a pregnancy is ectopic.
Normal Miscarriage Bleeding
Normal bleeding after a miscarriage can sometimes be surprisingly heavy, but make sure that you seek medical attention if you have any suspicion you might be hemorrhaging.
Normal bleeding after a miscarriage can sometimes be surprisingly heavy, but make sure that you seek medical attention if you have any suspicion you might be hemorrhaging.
Normal hCG Doubling Times
Doctors sometimes check the hCG doubling times for patients worried about miscarriage symptoms, such as bleeding during pregnancy in the early weeks. If the hCG doubles every two to three days, that is a reassuring sign that the pregnancy may be viable.
Doctors sometimes check the hCG doubling times for patients worried about miscarriage symptoms, such as bleeding during pregnancy in the early weeks. If the hCG doubles every two to three days, that is a reassuring sign that the pregnancy may be viable.
Lighter Line on Pregnancy Test
Analyzing the color of the line on a home pregnancy test is not a reliable way to determine whether or not you are miscarrying. Taking two consecutive home pregnancy tests to check the color will not tell you whether your hCG is rising appropriately.
Analyzing the color of the line on a home pregnancy test is not a reliable way to determine whether or not you are miscarrying. Taking two consecutive home pregnancy tests to check the color will not tell you whether your hCG is rising appropriately.
Miscarriage Risk Factors
Miscarriages are usually no one's fault, but this overview article covers a few risk factors that are statistically correlated with higher rates of pregnancy loss, as well as a few more factors may or may not be associated with increased risk.
Miscarriages are usually no one's fault, but this overview article covers a few risk factors that are statistically correlated with higher rates of pregnancy loss, as well as a few more factors may or may not be associated with increased risk.
Tampons Early Miscarriage
There's no specific evidence showing that tampons are dangerous after a miscarriage, but doctors usually advise women to use menstrual pads for the bleeding due to a possible risk of infection. After an early miscarriage/chemical pregnancy, you might wonder about the safety of tampons.
There's no specific evidence showing that tampons are dangerous after a miscarriage, but doctors usually advise women to use menstrual pads for the bleeding due to a possible risk of infection. After an early miscarriage/chemical pregnancy, you might wonder about the safety of tampons.
Infections and Miscarriage
Certain bacterial and viral infections can be linked to pregnancy loss. Sexually transmitted diseases such as chlamydia in pregnancy can increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy; other infections, such as parvovirus B19 (fifth disease), can be a miscarriage risk factor.
Certain bacterial and viral infections can be linked to pregnancy loss. Sexually transmitted diseases such as chlamydia in pregnancy can increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy; other infections, such as parvovirus B19 (fifth disease), can be a miscarriage risk factor.
MTHFR Genes and Miscarriage
MTHFR gene mutations can increase the risk of high homocysteine and might increase the risk of blood clots. Some doctors test for and treat common MTHFR gene variants as a risk factor for recurrent miscarriages, while others consider MTHFR tests worthless in treating miscarriages. What gives?
MTHFR gene mutations can increase the risk of high homocysteine and might increase the risk of blood clots. Some doctors test for and treat common MTHFR gene variants as a risk factor for recurrent miscarriages, while others consider MTHFR tests worthless in treating miscarriages. What gives?
Miscarriage Misdiagnosis
Naturally most women want to be absolutely certain that it's really a miscarriage before making decisions about treatment. Most doctors are very careful about being totally certain before giving a diagnosis of miscarriage, but rarely, viable pregnancies may be misdiagnosed as miscarriage.
Naturally most women want to be absolutely certain that it's really a miscarriage before making decisions about treatment. Most doctors are very careful about being totally certain before giving a diagnosis of miscarriage, but rarely, viable pregnancies may be misdiagnosed as miscarriage.
Elective Abortion Risks?
There is a lot of mixed information on whether an elective termination (abortion) means an increased risk of future pregnancy complications. If there is an increased risk of miscarriage after abortion, it is most likely to affect women with more than one surgical abortion.
There is a lot of mixed information on whether an elective termination (abortion) means an increased risk of future pregnancy complications. If there is an increased risk of miscarriage after abortion, it is most likely to affect women with more than one surgical abortion.
Types of Pregnancy Loss
Pregnancy loss can happen for a number of reasons and generally falls into several categories, including miscarriage in the first or second trimester, ectopic pregnancy, molar pregnancy, missed miscarriage, blighted ovum, stillbirth, neonatal death, or medically indicated termination.
Pregnancy loss can happen for a number of reasons and generally falls into several categories, including miscarriage in the first or second trimester, ectopic pregnancy, molar pregnancy, missed miscarriage, blighted ovum, stillbirth, neonatal death, or medically indicated termination.
Antiphospholipid Syndrome
Antiphospholipid antibodies may cause recurrent miscarriages in some women, but are rarely associated with any symptoms before that. The most common antibodies tested are lupus anticoagulant antibodies and anticardiolipin antibodies. Treatment with heparin and low-dose aspirin may improve pregnancy outcomes for women with recurrent miscarriages.
Antiphospholipid antibodies may cause recurrent miscarriages in some women, but are rarely associated with any symptoms before that. The most common antibodies tested are lupus anticoagulant antibodies and anticardiolipin antibodies. Treatment with heparin and low-dose aspirin may improve pregnancy outcomes for women with recurrent miscarriages.
Ruptured Ectopic Pregnancy
Signs of a ruptured ectopic pregnancy may include sharp stabbing pain in the abdomen or shoulder, dizziness, vomiting, or feeling faint. If you feel you have symptoms of a ruptured tubal pregnancy, go to the emergency room right away.
Signs of a ruptured ectopic pregnancy may include sharp stabbing pain in the abdomen or shoulder, dizziness, vomiting, or feeling faint. If you feel you have symptoms of a ruptured tubal pregnancy, go to the emergency room right away.
Immediate Pregnancy After Loss
Doctors often advise waiting to get pregnant again after miscarriage, but is the wait really necessary? Will an immediate subsequent pregnancy increase the risk for another miscarriage?
Doctors often advise waiting to get pregnant again after miscarriage, but is the wait really necessary? Will an immediate subsequent pregnancy increase the risk for another miscarriage?
Emotional Aftermath
Miscarriage and pregnancy loss bring out different feelings for different people. Sadness can feel overwhelming at first but, over time, coping with miscarriage will get easier. Many women may go through the often-cited five stages of grief after a pregnancy loss.
Miscarriage and pregnancy loss bring out different feelings for different people. Sadness can feel overwhelming at first but, over time, coping with miscarriage will get easier. Many women may go through the often-cited five stages of grief after a pregnancy loss.
Cats and Miscarriage
Many women worry that their cats might cause a miscarriage by transmitting toxoplasmosis, an infection associated with miscarriage. But the risk many people associate with cats is usually overblown.
Many women worry that their cats might cause a miscarriage by transmitting toxoplasmosis, an infection associated with miscarriage. But the risk many people associate with cats is usually overblown.
Quantitative hCG Blood Test
Quantitative hCG blood tests are the most common means of investigating signs of early miscarriage; women who have bleeding during the first few weeks of pregnancy often have serial blood tests to check hCG doubling times in order to gauge the odds of miscarriage.
Quantitative hCG blood tests are the most common means of investigating signs of early miscarriage; women who have bleeding during the first few weeks of pregnancy often have serial blood tests to check hCG doubling times in order to gauge the odds of miscarriage.
funeral song suggestions
A list of song ideas for use in a baby or child's funeral. Some spiritual songs, and some secular songs are included. This is by no means a comprehensive list, merely suggestions to help inspire you.
A list of song ideas for use in a baby or child's funeral. Some spiritual songs, and some secular songs are included. This is by no means a comprehensive list, merely suggestions to help inspire you.
Fertility After Miscarriage
You may have heard that women are more fertile after an early miscarriage. You may have also heard that it's a myth that women have better fertility after miscarriage. What's the truth?
You may have heard that women are more fertile after an early miscarriage. You may have also heard that it's a myth that women have better fertility after miscarriage. What's the truth?
Lactation Medications
After a pregnancy loss, some women don't want to deal with the lactation reflex that makes their milk come in, so they're looking for a quick solution. Learn more about medications that may help decrease your milk supply.
After a pregnancy loss, some women don't want to deal with the lactation reflex that makes their milk come in, so they're looking for a quick solution. Learn more about medications that may help decrease your milk supply.
Ovulation After Miscarriage
Unfortunately there is no way to predict when you will ovulate after a miscarriage except by using ovulation predictor strips. It could be anywhere from two weeks to three months after the miscarriage before your fertility returns.
Unfortunately there is no way to predict when you will ovulate after a miscarriage except by using ovulation predictor strips. It could be anywhere from two weeks to three months after the miscarriage before your fertility returns.
Signs of Depression
The signs and symptoms of depression are not that different from the signs of typical grief after a pregnancy loss. Thus, when you are grieving a miscarriage or pregnancy loss, it can be hard to tell whether or not you have developed clinical depression.
The signs and symptoms of depression are not that different from the signs of typical grief after a pregnancy loss. Thus, when you are grieving a miscarriage or pregnancy loss, it can be hard to tell whether or not you have developed clinical depression.
Conceive After Stillbirth
Advice varies on when it is safe to conceive after stillbirth, and there are no large studies to support a specific recommendation on when to get pregnant again. There may be an elevated risk of post-traumatic stress disorder when moms get pregnant again immediately after a late pregnancy loss.
Advice varies on when it is safe to conceive after stillbirth, and there are no large studies to support a specific recommendation on when to get pregnant again. There may be an elevated risk of post-traumatic stress disorder when moms get pregnant again immediately after a late pregnancy loss.
Heparin for Miscarriages
Heparin is a blood thinner that doctors often prescribe for women with recurrent miscarriages and a thrombophilia disorder such as antiphospholipid syndrome or lupus anticoagulant antibodies. The treatment improves pregnancy outcomes for women with antiphospholipid syndrome.
Heparin is a blood thinner that doctors often prescribe for women with recurrent miscarriages and a thrombophilia disorder such as antiphospholipid syndrome or lupus anticoagulant antibodies. The treatment improves pregnancy outcomes for women with antiphospholipid syndrome.
Return of Menstrual Period
Your menstrual period should return within six to eight weeks after a miscarriage. The exact time will vary based on the circumstances of the pregnancy loss.
Your menstrual period should return within six to eight weeks after a miscarriage. The exact time will vary based on the circumstances of the pregnancy loss.
Molar Pregnancy Overview
Molar pregnancy is a scary condition that causes pregnancy tissue to overgrow, and the fetus does not develop normally.
Molar pregnancy is a scary condition that causes pregnancy tissue to overgrow, and the fetus does not develop normally.
Chromosome Testing
After a miscarriage, parents may choose to run a karyotype or chromosome microarray analysis test on the baby's tissue to confirm or rule out chromosome disorders as the cause of the miscarriage. Chromosome testing may be of particular interest in couples having multiple miscarriages.
After a miscarriage, parents may choose to run a karyotype or chromosome microarray analysis test on the baby's tissue to confirm or rule out chromosome disorders as the cause of the miscarriage. Chromosome testing may be of particular interest in couples having multiple miscarriages.
Balanced Translocations
Balanced translocation, also called reciprocal translocation, is a type of chromosomal abnormality that can cause recurrent miscarriages in some couples. Balanced translocation means that sections of two chromosomes have switched places.
Balanced translocation, also called reciprocal translocation, is a type of chromosomal abnormality that can cause recurrent miscarriages in some couples. Balanced translocation means that sections of two chromosomes have switched places.
Progesterone Cream
Multiple over-the-counter progesterone creams are sold in health food stores, and some people claim that these creams can prevent miscarriage or treat recurrent miscarriages. Before you try to use any of these progesterone creams, be sure to read up on the safety concerns (and the truth about wild yam cream and progesterone).
Multiple over-the-counter progesterone creams are sold in health food stores, and some people claim that these creams can prevent miscarriage or treat recurrent miscarriages. Before you try to use any of these progesterone creams, be sure to read up on the safety concerns (and the truth about wild yam cream and progesterone).
When NOT to Call
Pregnant women have lots of questions, and worrying about miscarriage or stillbirth definitely fall into the question arena. It can be hard to determine when the right time is to contact your doctor or get checked out at the hospital. Here is a list of 6 of some common concerns for pregnant women that probably don't need a trip to the ER. Always contact your doctor for a final decision on your personal situation.
Pregnant women have lots of questions, and worrying about miscarriage or stillbirth definitely fall into the question arena. It can be hard to determine when the right time is to contact your doctor or get checked out at the hospital. Here is a list of 6 of some common concerns for pregnant women that probably don't need a trip to the ER. Always contact your doctor for a final decision on your personal situation.
Umbilical Cord Accidents
An umbilical cord accident means something happened to disrupt the blood flow to the baby during pregnancy, possibly causing stillbirth or disabilities such as cerebral palsy. Unfortunately, umbilical cord accidents usually cannot be prevented.
An umbilical cord accident means something happened to disrupt the blood flow to the baby during pregnancy, possibly causing stillbirth or disabilities such as cerebral palsy. Unfortunately, umbilical cord accidents usually cannot be prevented.
Morning Sickness Suddenly Gone
Although nausea and other pregnancy symptoms usually last until around the end of the first trimester, suddenly disappearing morning sickness or nausea is not necessarily a sign of miscarriage.
Although nausea and other pregnancy symptoms usually last until around the end of the first trimester, suddenly disappearing morning sickness or nausea is not necessarily a sign of miscarriage.
Sex During Pregnancy
Most doctors agree that sexual intercourse during pregnancy is safe and not likely to be a risk factor for causing miscarriage in the vast majority of women.
Most doctors agree that sexual intercourse during pregnancy is safe and not likely to be a risk factor for causing miscarriage in the vast majority of women.
When Can I Try Again?
After a miscarriage, many couples want to try to get pregnant again as soon as possible, but advice varies on the best amount of time to wait to try for a new pregnancy. Some doctors advise waiting as long as three months, whereas others say trying again immediately is OK.
After a miscarriage, many couples want to try to get pregnant again as soon as possible, but advice varies on the best amount of time to wait to try for a new pregnancy. Some doctors advise waiting as long as three months, whereas others say trying again immediately is OK.
Chorioamnionitis
Chorioamnionitis is a potentially serious condition in which the amniotic fluid and pregnancy membranes become infected by bacteria. With chorioamnionitis the baby may need to be delivered at once, and in some cases this condition can lead to loss of the baby.
Chorioamnionitis is a potentially serious condition in which the amniotic fluid and pregnancy membranes become infected by bacteria. With chorioamnionitis the baby may need to be delivered at once, and in some cases this condition can lead to loss of the baby.
Physical Recovery Questions
The physical process of miscarriage takes up to two weeks, and your body should be back to normal within about three months, depending on how far along your pregnancy was at the time of the miscarriage. These are some common questions about physical recovery after a miscarriage.
The physical process of miscarriage takes up to two weeks, and your body should be back to normal within about three months, depending on how far along your pregnancy was at the time of the miscarriage. These are some common questions about physical recovery after a miscarriage.
hCG Injections
Can supplementing with hCG work as a treatment for recurrent miscarriages? Strangely, research suggests it might, but more studies are needed to evaluation hCG injections as a miscarriage treatment.
Can supplementing with hCG work as a treatment for recurrent miscarriages? Strangely, research suggests it might, but more studies are needed to evaluation hCG injections as a miscarriage treatment.
Treatment of Stillbirth
In the case of a stillbirth or fetal demise, a woman must still undergo labor or a c-section to deliver her baby. Common questions about delivering a stillborn child (fetal demise) are answered. Why do I have to deliver the baby? Will it hurt even though my baby isn't alive? What happens at the hospital? How will my labor be different? And others.
In the case of a stillbirth or fetal demise, a woman must still undergo labor or a c-section to deliver her baby. Common questions about delivering a stillborn child (fetal demise) are answered. Why do I have to deliver the baby? Will it hurt even though my baby isn't alive? What happens at the hospital? How will my labor be different? And others.
Medically Based Termination
Selective abortion is a divisive issue and a delicate matter for parents to consider when prenatal screening results in a diagnosis of a severe chromosomal condition with a poor medical prognosis. Get both sides of the issue in this examination of pregnancy termination for health indications.
Selective abortion is a divisive issue and a delicate matter for parents to consider when prenatal screening results in a diagnosis of a severe chromosomal condition with a poor medical prognosis. Get both sides of the issue in this examination of pregnancy termination for health indications.
Plan B and Miscarriage
Although emergency contraception (plan B) can prevent a pregnancy after sexual intercourse, it will not induce a miscarriage or affect an established pregnancy.
Although emergency contraception (plan B) can prevent a pregnancy after sexual intercourse, it will not induce a miscarriage or affect an established pregnancy.
Lifestyle and Miscarriage Risk
Miscarriage is usually no one's fault, and even women with no miscarriage risk factors can have a pregnancy loss. However, studies have found that a few lifestyle factors can increase risk of pregnancy loss. Avoiding these risk factors can increase the odds of a successful pregnancy.
Miscarriage is usually no one's fault, and even women with no miscarriage risk factors can have a pregnancy loss. However, studies have found that a few lifestyle factors can increase risk of pregnancy loss. Avoiding these risk factors can increase the odds of a successful pregnancy.
Pap Smear Miscarriage
Some women worry that a pap smear during pregnancy could cause a miscarriage, but there's no reason to believe that a pap smear should cause any such complications.
Some women worry that a pap smear during pregnancy could cause a miscarriage, but there's no reason to believe that a pap smear should cause any such complications.
Heterotopic Pregnancy
A heterotopic pregnancy is a situation in which there is an ectopic pregnancy at the same time as a potentially viable pregnancy is implanted in the uterus. Heterotopic pregnancies are most common when couples conceive following infertility treatment.
A heterotopic pregnancy is a situation in which there is an ectopic pregnancy at the same time as a potentially viable pregnancy is implanted in the uterus. Heterotopic pregnancies are most common when couples conceive following infertility treatment.
Risk in Next Pregnancy
After one miscarriage, the risk of having another miscarriage does not increase much -- but there's some evidence that there might be increased risk of other pregnancy complications, such as preterm birth.
After one miscarriage, the risk of having another miscarriage does not increase much -- but there's some evidence that there might be increased risk of other pregnancy complications, such as preterm birth.
Family Practitioner
A family practitioner is a physician who has specialized in family medicine. Family practitioners may sometimes be referred to as general practitioners, and their training includes attending prenatal care and childbirth in pregnancies without high risk complications.
A family practitioner is a physician who has specialized in family medicine. Family practitioners may sometimes be referred to as general practitioners, and their training includes attending prenatal care and childbirth in pregnancies without high risk complications.