Natural Miscarriage: Causes, Symptoms, Natural Methods, and Risk Reduction Strategies

April 7, 2023
Blog Admin – April 7, 2023
Natural Miscarriage Causes Symptoms

Pregnancy is a beautiful and life-changing experience for every woman. However, it’s also a stressful…

Pregnancy is a beautiful and life-changing experience for every woman. However, it’s also a stressful and unpredictable journey. Miscarriage is a common occurrence during pregnancy, and it can be emotionally challenging for mothers. In this article, we will discuss natural miscarriage, including its causes, symptoms, risk factors, and ways to cope with it.

Welcome to our blog on understanding natural miscarriage. We understand that pregnancy loss is a difficult and emotional experience, and we want to provide a safe and informative space to discuss the topic. 

Miscarriage is a natural and unfortunately common occurrence, affecting up to 20% of known pregnancies. Pregnancy tissues, including tubal pregnancy, can lead to the need for treatment. Despite its prevalence, the lack of understanding and discussion around the topic leaves individuals feeling isolated and unsupported. Contractions may occur during a miscarriage.

In this blog, we will explore the causes and symptoms of natural miscarriage, as well as natural methods and risk reduction strategies that help support a healthy pregnancy. 

Miscarriage is a devastating loss that leaves mothers feeling alone, confused, and heartbroken. While there are no easy answers, understanding the causes, symptoms, natural methods, and risk-reduction strategies may help mothers manage and cope with a natural miscarriage.

We approach this topic with empathy and sensitivity, recognizing the unique experiences and emotions that come with pregnancy loss. Our goal is to provide a resource that is informative, respectful, and supportive to those who are seeking answers and guidance on this important topic.

What Is a Natural Miscarriage?

A natural miscarriage, a spontaneous abortion, is a heartbreaking experience that no mother wants to go through. It is the loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week of gestation without any medical intervention. It happens when the fetus cannot develop or survive inside the uterus due to various reasons. 

An unexpected natural miscarriage leaves a woman and her partner devastated and confused. So, It is important to understand that miscarriages are common, with about 15-25% of all known pregnancies ending in miscarriage. 

This does not make the experience any less painful or emotional for the mother. The majority of these occur within the first trimester, but they might happen at any stage of the pregnancy.

There could be a variety of reasons behind a natural miscarriage. Sometimes, it is due to genetic or developmental abnormalities in the fetus. Other times, it is caused by maternal health issues, such as infections or hormonal imbalances leaving a mother feeling alone and isolated.

Common Causes of Natural Miscarriage

Major causes of natural miscarriage

There are several causes of natural miscarriage, including:

  1. Chromosomal Abnormalities: It is the most common cause, accounting for 50-60% of all cases.
  2. Hormonal Imbalances: Hormonal imbalances, such as low levels of progesterone have a chance of causing a miscarriage.
  3. Infections: Infections in the uterus or other parts of the body might lead to a natural miscarriage.
  4. Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, thyroid problems, and autoimmune disorders also increase the risk of miscarriage.

There are several factors that lead to a miscarriage. Understanding the common causes of natural miscarriage help women make informed decisions about their reproductive health. So, let’s dig deeper into each causes individually.

1

Chromosomal Abnormalities

Chromosomal abnormalities are the most common cause of natural miscarriage, accounting for 50-60% of all cases. Chromosomes are the structures that carry genetic information, and abnormalities occur when the chromosomes do not divide properly during fertilization. These abnormalities lead to a fetus that is unable to survive, resulting in it.

2

Hormonal Imbalances

Hormonal imbalances also cause natural miscarriage. Progesterone is a hormone that plays a critical role in maintaining a healthy pregnancy, and low levels of progesterone increase the risk of miscarriage. Other hormonal imbalances, such as high levels of estrogen or thyroid problems also contribute to a natural miscarriage.

3

Infections

A natural miscarriage can also occur as a result of infections affecting the uterus or other parts of the body. Infections such as bacterial vaginosis, Listeria, and toxoplasmosis are harmful to a developing fetus and may cause miscarriage. You must maintain good hygiene and seek treatment promptly if an infection is suspected.

4

Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions also increase the risk of natural miscarriage. Women with diabetes, thyroid problems, autoimmune disorders, and other chronic conditions may be more likely to experience a miscarriage. Women with these conditions have to work closely with their healthcare providers to manage their health and reduce the risk of miscarriage.

Overall, a natural miscarriage is caused by a variety of factors. While some causes are outside of a woman’s control, others must be managed with proper medical care and attention. By understanding these causes of natural miscarriage, women could take steps to protect their reproductive health and make informed decisions about their fertility.

Factors That Increase the Risk of Natural Miscarriage

It is helpful to understand the factors that increase the risk of natural miscarriage, so you can take steps to reduce your risk and increase your chances of a successful pregnancy.

One of the most significant factors that increase the risk of natural miscarriage is age. As women age, the quality of their eggs decreases, which leads to a higher risk of chromosomal abnormalities and miscarriage. Women over the age of 35 are particularly at risk, but even women in their 20s and 30s experience miscarriages.

smoking causes for the natural miscarriage

Lifestyle choices also increase the risk of natural miscarriage. Smoking, alcohol consumption, and drug abuse have all been linked to an increased risk of miscarriage. These substances affect the developing fetus and increase the risk of birth defects or other complications.

A previous miscarriage also increases the risk of experiencing another miscarriage. While many women go on to have successful pregnancies after a miscarriage, it is good to be aware of the increased risk and to take steps to reduce it.

Certain medical conditions also increase the risk of natural miscarriage. High blood pressure and diabetes affect the developing fetus and increase the risk of complications or miscarriage. Managing these conditions carefully during pregnancy reduces the risk of miscarriage.

Other factors that increase the risk of natural miscarriage include exposure to environmental toxins

such as pesticides and lead, and certain infections, such as rubella or cytomegalovirus. Take steps to reduce your exposure to these substances and speak with your healthcare provider about any potential risks.

If you have experienced it or are at risk of experiencing it, seek support and care from your healthcare provider. They could help you with guidance and resources to help you manage your risk and increase your chances of a successful pregnancy. 

Remember, every woman’s experience is unique, and there is no right or wrong way to feel after a miscarriage. Take time to process your emotions and seek support from loved ones as you navigate this difficult time.

Symptoms of a Natural Miscarriage

The symptoms are distressing, and it is ideal to be aware of them. Here are some more details about the five most common symptoms:

symptops of the natural miscarriage
1

Vaginal Bleeding

Vaginal bleeding is the most common symptom of it. The bleeding can be light or heavy and may be accompanied by abdominal pain. It could last for several days or longer.

2

Cramping

Cramping in the lower abdomen is another common symptom of natural miscarriage. The cramping could be mild or severe and may feel similar to menstrual cramps

3

Back Pain

Back pain is another common symptom of natural miscarriage. The pain ranges from mild to severe and may be caused by the body expelling the contents of the uterus. Women may experience both lower back pain and abdominal pain at the same time.

4

Passing Tissue

Women who are having a natural miscarriage may pass tissue or clots through the vagina. This tissue may include the gestational sac or fetal tissue. Passing tissue is a distressing experience, and women should seek medical attention if they experience this symptom.

5

Decrease in Pregnancy Symptoms

Women who are experiencing a natural miscarriage may notice a decrease in their pregnancy symptoms. These symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, breast tenderness, and fatigue. The decrease in pregnancy symptoms may be gradual or sudden and may be an indication that a miscarriage is occurring.

In addition to these common symptoms, women may also experience other symptoms during a natural miscarriage. These include:

  • Dizziness or fainting
  • Fever or chills
  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Pain during sex or pelvic exams
  • Emotional symptoms such as depression, anxiety, or grief

Every woman’s experience of natural miscarriage is unique, and not all women will experience the same symptoms. Some women may have a missed miscarriage, where the pregnancy ends, but the body does not expel the tissue. This may be diagnosed through an ultrasound.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or suspect that you may be having a natural miscarriage, seek medical attention and support as soon as possible. 

Your healthcare provider might help to determine if a miscarriage is occurring and provide guidance on the next steps. We know we have said this plenty of times, but remember, seeking support from loved ones and healthcare professionals helps you to cope with the emotional and physical aspects of a natural miscarriage.

5 Best Ways to Have a Natural Miscarriage

We want to stress the fact that attempting to have a natural miscarriage without medical supervision is extremely dangerous and could possibly cause serious harm to a woman’s health. 

Natural miscarriage should never be attempted as a means of terminating a pregnancy. Women who wish to end a pregnancy should seek medical attention from a licensed healthcare provider.

Despite this, some women may still believe that certain methods effectively induce a natural miscarriage. 

ways to  a natural misscariage

For educational purposes, here are some of the most commonly suggested ways to induce a natural miscarriage, along with the potential risks associated with each method:

  1. Consuming herbs: A few women believe that consuming herbs like parsley, ginger, and Dong Quai help induce a natural miscarriage. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim, and consuming large amounts of these herbs might turn out to be harmful to a woman’s health—some herbs even cause uterine contractions that lead to preterm labor.
  1. Vitamin C: Certain women believe that consuming large doses of vitamin C help induce a natural miscarriage. However, excessive vitamin C intake could lead to health complications, such as nausea, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. In addition, high doses of vitamin C interfere with the body’s absorption of other essential nutrients.
  1. Acupuncture: Acupuncture is believed by some women to help induce natural miscarriage, but there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. Additionally, acupuncture poses certain risks, such as infection or injury from improperly sterilized needles.
  1. Exercise: Several women believe that strenuous exercise helps induce natural miscarriage. However, excessive exercise can cause harm to a woman’s health, particularly if she is pregnant. Strenuous exercise causes uterine contractions that lead to preterm labor, which results in serious complications.
  1. Hot Baths: women believe that taking hot baths help induce natural miscarriage. However, taking hot baths could harm the woman’s health, particularly if she is pregnant. 

Attempting to have a natural miscarriage without medical supervision is dangerous and may cause serious harm to a woman’s health. Women who wish to end a pregnancy should seek medical attention from a licensed healthcare provider, who provides safe and effective options for termination. Women must prioritize their health and safety and seek medical attention when necessary.

The Physical and Emotional Impact of Natural Miscarriage

emotional impact of natural miscarriage

It is a very difficult and emotional experience for many women. Physically, it is painful and uncomfortable because bleeding and cramping are the most common symptoms.

But the emotional impacts of natural miscarriage are just as challenging to deal with. Women may feel a range of emotions, including sadness, guilt, and grief. It is not uncommon for women to blame themselves or feel like they have done something wrong, even though factors outside of their control often cause natural miscarriage.

Talking to a therapist helps with coping strategies and processing the emotions that come with a natural miscarriage. Women may also find comfort in support groups or talking to friends and family members who have gone through a similar experience.

It is also crucial for women to take care of their physical health after a natural miscarriage. Resting, staying hydrated, and eating nutritious foods help the body recover.

In addition to physical and emotional impacts on the woman, a natural miscarriage also impacts the partner and other family members. Partners may also feel sadness and grief and may struggle to support their loved ones during this difficult time. Family members may not know how to respond or what to say.

Partners and family members must be supportive and understanding, even if they do not fully comprehend what the woman is going through. Being present to listen and provide comfort is beneficial.

When to Seek Medical Attention After a Natural Miscarriage?

It is essential to seek medical attention after experiencing a natural miscarriage. If a woman experiences heavy bleeding, severe pain, or fever, she should seek medical attention immediately. In some cases, a woman may need a dilation and curettage (D&C) procedure to remove any remaining tissue from the uterus.

Signs to Watch for

  • Heavy bleeding that soaks through a pad in an hour or less
  • Severe pain that is not relieved by over-the-counter pain medications
  • Fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher
  • Foul-smelling discharge from the vagina
  • Persistent nausea or vomiting
  • Signs of infection, such as chills, fatigue, or body aches

Why Seek Medical Attention?

  • Medical attention helps prevent complications and ensure that the woman’s physical health is stable.
  • A healthcare provider monitors the woman’s recovery and provides any necessary treatments.
  • Medical attention also provides emotional support and resources for coping with the experience.

What to Expect at a Medical Appointment

  • The healthcare provider may perform a physical exam to check for any remaining tissue in the uterus.
  • They may also order blood tests to monitor hormone levels and check for signs of infection.
  • In some cases, an ultrasound may be performed to check for any remaining tissue or complications.
  • The healthcare provider may also discuss options for contraception and future pregnancy planning.

It is critical for women to seek medical attention as soon as they notice any concerning symptoms. Early intervention helps to prevent complications while also supporting the woman’s physical and emotional health.

Natural Miscarriage Vs. Induced Abortion: Understanding the Differences

natural miscarriage and induced abortion

Natural miscarriage and induced abortion are different. It happens spontaneously, while induced abortion is a medical procedure to terminate a pregnancy. 

Induced abortion is a safe and legal option for women who want to end their pregnancy. But they should only be performed by a licensed healthcare provider.

Although both involve the loss of a pregnancy, there are some key differences between the two. Here are some factors that distinguish natural miscarriage from induced abortion:

Cause: It occurs due to a spontaneous loss of pregnancy, while induced abortion is a deliberate medical procedure performed to end a pregnancy.

Timing: it occurs at any time during pregnancy, while induced abortion is typically performed within the first trimester (up to 12 weeks).

Symptoms: In a natural miscarriage, a woman may experience bleeding, cramping, and passing of tissue or clots from the vagina. In an induced abortion, the woman may experience cramping, bleeding, and other side effects, such as nausea or headache, depending on the method used.

Choice: A woman has no control over a natural miscarriage, while induced abortion is a decision made by the woman in consultation with a healthcare provider.

Legal status: In many countries, induced abortion is illegal and regulated, while natural miscarriage is not legal since it is outside women’s control.

Emotional impact: Both natural miscarriage and induced abortion are emotionally challenging for a woman. However, it is particularly difficult because it is often unexpected.

While These two are different, both have physical and emotional impacts on a woman’s life.

Coping With the Aftermath of a Natural Miscarriage

healing from a natural miscarriage

Experiencing a natural miscarriage is an incredibly difficult and heartbreaking experience for women. The emotional pain and grief that follow could be overwhelming and make it difficult to cope.

Seeking help from loved ones and healthcare providers is one of the most important things you can do. Speaking with someone you trust about your feelings and emotions may help you process your grief and feel less alone. During this difficult time, don’t be afraid to lean on your partner, family, or friends.

Joining a support group or seeking counseling is also incredibly helpful in coping with the emotional impacts of a natural miscarriage. 

These resources provide a safe and supportive environment where you can talk about your feelings and emotions with others who have gone through a similar experience. Counseling also helps you learn coping strategies and provide guidance on how to move forward.

Take care of yourself during this time. Make sure to get enough rest, eat a healthy diet, and engage in activities that make you feel good. This includes exercise, meditation, or hobbies that you enjoy.

Finally, give yourself time to grieve and process your emotions. There is no right or wrong way to feel, and it is normal to experience a range of emotions such as sadness, anger, guilt, and confusion. Allow yourself to feel these emotions and seek help if you feel overwhelmed.

Remember that healing from a natural miscarriage takes time and that it is okay to take things at your own pace. With the support of loved ones and healthcare providers, you can move forward and find peace after this difficult experience.

Reducing the Risk of Natural Miscarriage

Although natural miscarriage cannot always be prevented, there are ways to reduce the risk of it, including:

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, getting regular prenatal care, and managing medical conditions are essential in reducing the risk of this. Here’s a closer look at each of these points:

Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle helps with reducing the risk of natural miscarriage. Smoking, alcohol consumption, and drug abuse during pregnancy increase the risk of miscarriage. Therefore, it is important for women to avoid these substances during pregnancy. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise also helps reduce the risk of it.

Getting Prenatal Care

Getting regular prenatal care is essential for the health of the mother and the developing fetus. Prenatal care helps identify and treat any medical conditions that increase the risk of it. Women who receive early and regular prenatal care have a lower risk of miscarriage compared to women who do not receive prenatal care.

Managing Medical Conditions

Women with pre-existing medical conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, have a higher risk of miscarriage. Women must work with their healthcare providers to manage these conditions during pregnancy. Proper management of medical conditions helps reduce the risk of natural miscarriage.

Avoiding Environmental Toxins

Exposure to environmental toxins during pregnancy increases the risk of miscarriage. It is very crucial for women to avoid exposure to chemicals, pesticides, and other environmental toxins during pregnancy.

Managing Stress

Stress during pregnancy also contributes to the risk of miscarriage. Therefore, it is important for women to manage their stress levels during pregnancy. Practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga, helps reduce stress levels.

Monitoring Medication Use

Certain medications may increase the risk of miscarriage. Women should consult with their healthcare provider before taking any medication during pregnancy to ensure that it is safe for the developing fetus.

In conclusion, a natural miscarriage cannot always be prevented, but maintaining a healthy lifestyle, getting regular prenatal care, managing medical conditions, avoiding environmental toxins, managing stress, and monitoring medication use help with reducing the risk of this miscarriage.

Conclusion: Understanding and Managing Natural Miscarriage

It is emotionally and physically challenging for women. It is important to seek support from loved ones and healthcare providers.

While there are no natural ways to induce miscarriage that are safe or recommended, induced abortion could be a safe and legal option for women who want to terminate their pregnancy. 

By understanding the causes, risk factors, and ways to cope with natural miscarriage, women can better manage their pregnancy journey and reduce the risk of miscarriage.

  1. https://www.medindia.net/news/around-15-25-of-all-pregnancies-end-in-miscarriage-in-india-190932-1.htm
  2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3640235/
  3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4958068/
  4. https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/women-ve-tried-herbal-abortions-urge-others-not-follow-lead-rcna39563
  5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3933529/
  6. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/dilation-and-curettage/about/pac-20384910

Written By

Choose Your Baby’s Age