Quick Answer: A miscarriage, medically referred to as a spontaneous abortion, occurs when a developing baby inside the womb stops growing and loses viability, leading to the termination of the pregnancy. In Filipino culture, the term “nakunan” reflects the belief that the baby’s life or spirit has been taken, often linked to spiritual notions. Miscarriages are not uncommon, making it important to recognize the signs and seek medical care when needed.
Common signs include:
- Vaginal bleeding that is heavier than usual for pregnant women.
- Pain in the abdomen, pelvis, or vaginal area.
- Sudden disappearance of pregnancy symptoms.
If any of these occur, consult an OB-GYN immediately. An ultrasound is one of the most effective tools to confirm a miscarriage.
Understanding Miscarriage
A miscarriage typically occurs in the first trimester and can happen due to various reasons, including chromosomal abnormalities, hormonal imbalances, infections, or physical trauma. While some miscarriages are unavoidable, early recognition and medical care can help ensure safety and emotional support for the affected woman.
Signs That a Woman May Have Had a Miscarriage
Here are the common signs that could indicate a miscarriage:
- Vaginal bleeding or spotting.
- Bleeding that is heavier than the usual spotting in pregnancy can signal a miscarriage. This bleeding may range from light spotting to heavy blood flow with clots.
- Abdominal or pelvic pain.
- Cramping or sharp pain in the lower abdomen, pelvis, or vaginal area may occur. The intensity can vary but should not be ignored.
- Loss of pregnancy symptoms.
- A sudden absence of common pregnancy symptoms such as nausea, breast tenderness, or fatigue may indicate a problem.
- Passage of tissue or clots.
- The passing of grayish or pinkish tissue through the vagina could be a clear sign of miscarriage.
What to Do If You Suspect a Miscarriage
If you suspect a miscarriage, take the following steps:
- Seek immediate medical attention.
- Contact your OB-GYN or visit the nearest hospital for evaluation. Time is critical in addressing potential complications and ensuring your safety.
- Get an ultrasound.
- This diagnostic imaging test provides a clear view of the uterus to confirm whether the pregnancy is still viable or if a miscarriage has occurred.
- Undergo blood tests.
- Blood tests may measure human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels to assess the progression of the pregnancy. A decline in hCG can indicate a miscarriage.
- Follow doctor’s recommendations.
- Based on the findings, your doctor may suggest natural passing of the tissue, medication to assist the process, or a procedure like dilation and curettage (D&C) to remove remaining tissue from the uterus.
Common Causes of Miscarriage
Understanding potential causes can help you manage risk factors where possible. Common causes include:
- Chromosomal abnormalities. These account for most first-trimester miscarriages.
- Hormonal imbalances. Conditions like low progesterone levels can affect pregnancy viability.
- Infections. Certain infections, like UTIs or sexually transmitted diseases, can increase miscarriage risk.
- Physical trauma or lifestyle factors. Excessive stress, smoking, alcohol consumption, and high-impact physical activities may contribute.
Preventing Miscarriage
While not all miscarriages are preventable, the following tips can promote a healthy pregnancy:
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in nutrients.
- Avoid smoking, alcohol, and recreational drugs.
- Manage chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension with your doctor’s guidance.
- Schedule regular prenatal checkups to monitor your pregnancy’s progress.
When to See a Doctor
You should consult a doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Heavy vaginal bleeding or passing of clots.
- Severe abdominal pain or cramping.
- Fever or chills (may indicate an infection).
- Signs of fainting or dizziness.
A miscarriage can be a deeply emotional experience, but it’s important to remember that it is often beyond anyone’s control. Early recognition of the signs and prompt medical care can help ensure your safety and address complications.
If you suspect a miscarriage, reach out to a healthcare professional immediately for support and guidance. Miscarriages, though challenging, do not always mean future pregnancies are impossible—many women go on to have healthy pregnancies afterward.
