approximately one in four confirmed pregnancies ends in a miscarriage<\/a>.<\/p>\n\u201cFor most pregnant people under the age of 35, the risk of miscarriage is just under 20 percent,\u201d Dr. Marks says. \u201cThat number goes up the older a person gets. By the time you hit 40, the statistical risk of experiencing a miscarriage is about 30 to 35 percent.\u201d<\/p>\n
The most common causes of miscarriage include:<\/p>\n
Chromosome problems with the embryo<\/strong>. Chromosomes contain our DNA \u2014 the genetic code that shapes our health, growth and development. Sometimes an embryo may have missing chromosomes or extra copies of chromosomes, making it unlikely it will survive. These abnormalities account for most first-trimester miscarriages.<\/p>\n\u201cChromosomal problems are random events that can\u2019t be prevented,\u201d Dr. Marks says. \u201cIt doesn\u2019t mean that there is anything genetically wrong with either parent. In fact, if you have had one miscarriage during the first trimester and you get pregnant again, your likelihood of having a successful pregnancy is the same as anybody else\u2019s.\u201d<\/p>\n
Problems with the uterus<\/strong>. Some uterine conditions can increase a person\u2019s risk of repeated miscarriages. These problems can include excess scar tissue or benign growths in the uterus, such as fibroids or polyps. A condition called uterine septum, where the uterus has a thick layer of connective tissue that divides it in two, may disrupt the flow of nutrients to an embryo, resulting in miscarriage. Once these conditions have been treated through surgical procedures, a successful pregnancy is often possible.<\/p>\nChronic medical conditions<\/strong>. Some medical conditions, when untreated, can increase the risk of miscarriage. These include diabetes, blood-clotting disorders, thyroid disease and autoimmune conditions. Regularly taking prescribed medications and ensuring a condition is well-controlled can increase the likelihood of a successful pregnancy.<\/p>\nSometimes it isn\u2019t always clear why a miscarriage happens, but whether the cause is known or unknown, it\u2019s common to feel a sense of guilt.<\/p>\n
\u201cA lot of people blame themselves for a miscarriage,\u201d Dr. Marks says. \u201cBut it isn\u2019t because you exercised too much, had sex, lifted something heavy, ate something you weren\u2019t supposed to or fell behind on your prenatal vitamins. The loss may hurt deeply, but it isn\u2019t your fault.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cIf you are supporting someone who is newly pregnant after a miscarriage, the most important thing you can do is just listen. Being present without offering judgment, without telling them what to do and without brushing off their concerns is the most meaningful type of support you can offer.\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\n