Miscarriage in the First Month

Miscarriage is one of the most challenging experiences a woman can face. In this article, we will shed light on everything related to miscarriage in the first month, so continue reading.

Can Miscarriage Happen in the First Month?

Miscarriage is the sudden loss of pregnancy before the 24th week, a condition that is quite common. About 10-20% of pregnant women experience miscarriage, but the actual number may be higher, as many miscarriages occur before a woman even realizes she is pregnant, which is typically in the first month.

A miscarriage can happen anytime after the fertilization of the egg. If it occurs in the first month before a woman knows she is pregnant, she might mistake it for a menstrual period since both can cause similar symptoms.

It’s important to note that a miscarriage occurring within the first 12 weeks of pregnancy is referred to as an early miscarriage, whereas one that happens between the 12th and 24th weeks is considered a late miscarriage.

What Are the Possible Causes of Early Miscarriage?

Miscarriage in the first five weeks after fertilization, known as a chemical pregnancy, often occurs due to chromosomal abnormalities that prevent the embryo from developing properly. The miscarriage happens when the tissues of the placenta and embryo are expelled from the body, usually coinciding with a menstrual period.

However, early miscarriage is not limited to this cause. While 50% of miscarriages are related to chromosomal issues, a blighted ovum, where an egg implants in the uterus but doesn’t develop into an embryo, can also lead to early miscarriage. Other potential causes include:

• Uterine or cervical issues, where the size or shape of the uterus may lead to miscarriage.
• Infections, such as rubella, food poisoning, or sexually transmitted diseases.
• Severe trauma, like a major car accident.

Are There Factors That Increase the Risk of Early Miscarriage?

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, certain conditions can increase the risk of miscarriage in general, including:

• Heavy smoking.
• Drug use, particularly cocaine.
• Uncontrolled diabetes.
• Hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.
• Physical problems in the uterus, such as fibroids or cervical abnormalities.

It’s essential to clarify that sexual activity, exercise, work, previous use of oral contraceptives, and even nausea are not linked to causing miscarriage.

What Are the Symptoms and Signs of Early Miscarriage?

The signs of miscarriage in the first month can resemble those of a menstrual period, and many women may not notice any signs other than a heavier period. Generally, the further along the pregnancy is, the less likely it is that a miscarriage will mimic a regular menstrual period.

The most common symptoms of early miscarriage are cramping and bleeding, but these don’t always indicate a miscarriage, as one-third of pregnant women experience light cramping and bleeding early in pregnancy, with half of these cases resulting in a normal pregnancy.

Symptoms and signs of early miscarriage include:

• Vaginal bleeding: It is usually heavier and lasts longer than a menstrual period, ranging in color from brown (similar to coffee grounds) to light pink or bright red. Bleeding may stop temporarily and then resume.
• Passing tissue: Miscarriage may cause the passage of larger blood clots than those seen in a regular menstrual period, or a woman might later notice tissue passing from the vagina (placental or embryonic tissue).
• Abdominal pain and cramping: Cramping similar to menstrual cramps but intensifying over time as the cervix dilates.
• Other symptoms: These can include dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, and diarrhea.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Miscarriage

While many women might not realize they have had a miscarriage in the first month and mistake it for a period, the appearance of the symptoms mentioned above requires a visit to the doctor.

Typically, the doctor will ask a series of questions about the symptoms and when they started. Then, a physical exam and ultrasound will be conducted to confirm the miscarriage, along with a blood test to measure pregnancy hormone levels.

If the miscarriage is complete, meaning the uterus has expelled all the fetal tissue, no further treatment is usually necessary. However, if any tissue remains, the doctor may recommend certain procedures to remove it from the body.

Blazma offers all the tests that a doctor may request, including the Beta-hCG test, which requires no prior preparation.

Is It Possible to Get Pregnant Again After a Miscarriage?

Yes, a miscarriage does not affect fertility or the ability to conceive again. Most women can have a successful pregnancy after experiencing a miscarriage.

Ovulation and pregnancy can occur as soon as two weeks after an early miscarriage. However, if a woman does not wish to become pregnant immediately, it is essential to use contraception.