When you discover you’re unexpectedly pregnant, you are faced with difficult decisions that you hoped you would never be in a position to make. Women frequently ask themselves if the pregnancy might end on its own through miscarriage, and it’s a valid question.
A miscarriage is a natural pregnancy loss before twenty weeks of pregnancy, and they are common. Nearly 50% of all pregnancies end in miscarriage, and 15%-25% of known pregnancies miscarry. Eighty percent of miscarriages occur in the first twelve weeks of pregnancy.
Here we will learn more and discuss why miscarriages happen and how likely you are to have a miscarriage.
Why Do Miscarriages Happen?
According to March of Dimes, common underlying causes for miscarriage include:
1. Chromosome problems
Chromosomal problems in an embryo cause about 50% of all miscarriages.
2. Anatomic problems
When there are defects of the uterus, cervix, or other anatomic problems, it can lead to an inability for a woman’s body to maintain a healthy pregnancy, leading to miscarriage.
3. Infections
Infections such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), chickenpox, and toxoplasmosis can also harm a healthy pregnancy and cause a miscarriage.
4. Certain health conditions
Autoimmune disorders, obesity, hormone problems, preexisting diabetes, clotting disorders, and other health conditions can also lead to miscarriage.
If you experience a miscarriage in the first trimester, you might be surprised to feel conflicting emotions when the pregnancy is unplanned. But it’s important to know that it isn’t your fault.
Signs and Symptoms of Miscarriage
If you know you’re pregnant and experience any of the following signs or symptoms of miscarriage, contact your healthcare provider.
The two most common signs and symptoms of miscarriage are:
- Vaginal bleeding or spotting
- Severe cramping or cramping on one side
How Likely Am I to Have a Miscarriage?
Miscarriage rates are higher the earlier you are in your pregnancy; the likelihood lessens the further along you are. So, how likely are you to have a miscarriage?
- Week 3
Women often have miscarriages before they realize they are pregnant. The risk of miscarriage during week three is 30% to as high as 50%.
- Weeks 5-6
Between your fifth and sixth week of pregnancy, your risk of miscarriage lowers to between 14% and 20%. At this point, your period would be one to two weeks late, yet you still might think you’re just having a late and heavier period if you haven’t taken a pregnancy test.
- Weeks 7-12
If you had a positive pregnancy test, which was also confirmed with a heartbeat by ultrasound, your chances of miscarriage are approximately 10%.
Confirm Your Pregnancy
If you are considering abortion for your unexpected pregnancy, it’s critical to confirm that you have a viable pregnancy to prevent having an abortion you don’t need. A viable pregnancy is in the uterus and shows signs of progressing normally, and that can only be determined by ultrasound.
At Willowbrook Women’s Center, we provide confidential and no-cost services to you to help you determine how likely you are to miscarry. Our licensed healthcare professionals are available to walk you through one step at a time so that you can make an informed decision about your pregnancy with confidence. Be empowered by making an appointment today.
