The risk of miscarriage in approximately about 1 in every 5 women. It’s much more common than we actually think. And a miscarriage is a natural loss of pregnancy before the 24th week.
If a miscarriage occurs in the first three months of pregnancy it’s normally due to a problem with the unborn baby. Miscarriage between 14 and 24 weeks is less common. It could be caused by a variety of issues mainly infection, problems with the placenta, or perhaps a weakness in the cervix.
For women who are aged 45 and over unfortunately the risk of miscarriage is much higher.
Even though you cannot prevent a miscarriage there are certain things you can do to reduce your chances such as cutting out smoking, alcohol, only drinking caffeine to recommended levels and not misusing drugs. If you are overweight it’s a recommendation that you lose weight before you become pregnant.
There are lots of myths and misconceptions about miscarriage. There’s extensive evidence out there to suggest that having a stressful day at work, lifting and shifting, going to the gym, having sex will not cause a miscarriage so if you’re pregnant just carry on life as normal.
About video: Midwife Chantelle Winstanley explains why one in five pregnancies can result in miscarriage during the first trimester.
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