Pregnancy Loss

Written By Yen Nguyen

What is Pregnancy Loss ?

Pregnancy loss is the death of an unborn baby (fetus) at any time during the pregnancy. Sadly, pregnancy loss is a common occurrence and can occur in up to 1 in every 4 pregnancies. Most pregnancy loss will happen in the first trimester and this is often referred to as a miscarriage. (Landing page + C2A page)

Different types of pregnancy losses:

  • Chemical pregnancy - the egg is fertilised but never develops into an embryo.

  • Miscarriage - pregnancy loss before 13 weeks gestation, also known as a spontaneous abortion. 

  • Ectopic pregnancy - development of the pregnancy outside the uterus (such as in the cervix, fallopian tube, pelvis or abdomen. 

  • Molar pregnancy - abnormal development of the fetal and placental tissue.

  • Stillbirth - death of the fetus after 20 weeks of gestation.

 There are numerous causes for early pregnancy losses but nearly half are due to complications with genes or chromosomes. It is generally not caused by anything the mother did.

Causes of pregnancy loss:

  • Abnormal embryo development

  • Hormonal disorders 

  • High blood pressure 

  • Diabetes (high blood sugar)

  • Uterine issues

  • Incompetent cervix

  • Infections (CMV, chlamydia, toxoplasma etc)

  • Autoimmune diseases (Lupus)

  • Injury and trauma

  • Exposure to toxic substances/chemicals

Most pregnancy losses are often random, spontaneous and are single events. Recurrent pregnancy loss is when it happens 3 or more times. Further testing for couples is recommended for recurrent losses.

Risks for pregnancy loss:

  • Increased maternal age

  • Previous pregnancy losses

  • Smoking

  • Alcohol consumption

  • Increased caffeine uptake

  • Drugs usage

  • Low folate levels

  • Over or underweight

Common symptoms of pregnancy loss:

  • Vaginal bleeding

  • Cramping

  • Lack of fetal movement

Diagnosis of pregnancy loss:

  • Blood tests looking for human chorionic gonadotropin hormone (hCG).

  • Ultrasound to confirm viability.

  • Repeat bloods and ultrasound if necessary.

Pregnancy loss treatment:

  • Letting the pregnancy tissue pass naturally.

  • Medicine to help speed up the process.

  • Surgically removed (D&C)

Your healthcare provider will take in account several factors such as age, overall health and your preference to suggest the best treatment option. Your healthcare provider may also help you find resources to provide counseling and support to you and your family during this time.

Everyone deals with losses differently. For most, the difficult part is the emotional stress of the loss itself. These are typical responses and may take a long time to recover. Some of the feelings people experience are shock, numbness, denial, confusion, anger, guilt, searching, yearning, disorientation, depression, lack of motivation, reorganisation or resolution.

 
 

Looking for further support?

Organisations below can provide further resources

Yen Nguyen
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