Typically, miscarriages happen within the first 13 weeks of pregnancy (miscarriage is classified as loss within the first 20 weeks) and is a result of failure to implant or chromosomal abnormalities. This results in what most women would assume is a late period. At least 20% of all pregnancies end in miscarriage.

The chances of miscarrying is decreased the futher along in pregnancy you are, once the gestational sac develops there is a 15% chance and once the heartbeat is detected there is still 9.5% chance to miscarry. Age of the mother also impacts the chance of miscarriage, meaning moms that are 30 have an increased risk and it goes up to 78 percent at age 40.

Many factors can lead to a miscarriage, most importantly chromosomal issues with the fetus. As you know from my previous post, hormones are also a factor, smoking, drinking, excessive caffeine must also be taken into consideration. This is why there are recommendations when you are actively trying to conceive to limit the risks of miscarriage.

The symptoms of miscarriage can be found on the internet so I will not go into detail here because it can be a trigger for anyone who has had a miscarriage (for example me, even though I have two healthy boys it still makes me sad).

It is possible to have a missed miscarriage, this does not come with any common symptoms and is caused by the placenta continuing to release hormones and can be diagnosed by the lack of heartbeat during an ultrasound and/or lack of development.

Just like after a pregnancy, a miscarriage causes hormone changes and in addition to the loss of fetus your body has to adjust to hormone changes. If you have been trying to conceive and you miscarry I recommend talking with someone. Personally, I would recommend a therapist but it can be anyone that you can be open with. Since this subject is “taboo” and not discussed it’s important to find someone who will listen and help you to grieve.

Signs of depression after a miscarriage can be fatigue, trouble sleeping, loss of appetite, difficultly concentrating, crying, and self harm. The hormones during pregnancy and loss can make all of these feelings more intense. If you already have depression or anxiety this can increase your chances of depression after a miscarriage.

It is important to remember though, this loss is not just for the mother. If you have been trying to conceive and miscarry the father also feels the loss and it is important that both are able to grieve.

Resources

10 Unbelieveable Missed Miscarriage Statistics

https://datayze.com/miscarriage-chart.php

https://www.verywellfamily.com/making-sense-of-miscarriage-statistics-2371721

Key Facts To Understand And Cope With A Miscarriage

https://www.verywellfamily.com/when-miscarriage-grief-becomes-depression-2371329

After a Miscarriage: Surviving Emotionally