There is NEVER nor will there EVER be a correct way to tell someone a pregnancy that was highly anticipated; wanted….is no more.
Whenever I have to deliver such news, I always find myself either pacing back and forth in my office; staring out the window expecting “the words” to miraculously appear in the sky; standing outside your door not wanting to face your tears, witness your sadness….
First and foremost…..
YOU ARE NOT ALONE!
Miscarriage, or early pregnancy loss, occurs in 10-12% of clinically recognized pregnancies.
IT IS NOT YOUR FAULT!
Between 50-70% of 1st trimester losses are due to chromosomal abnormalities….more simply put; either the egg or the sperm had an incorrect number of chromosomes.
Causes of 1st trimester loss include but are not limited to:
- Chromosomal Abnormalities
- Chronic medical issues such as Thyroid Abnormalities/Diabetes
- Intrauterine adhesions(can be the result of surgeries such as septum resections, dilation and curettage, etc)
- Uterine Abnormalities(e.g: polyps, fibroids, septums, etc)
- Exogenous/Environmental exposures
By definition, ACOG(the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology)defines recurrent pregnancy loss as 2 or 3 consecutive losses; hence, no formal workup is typically done until said criteria is met.
Probably “THE BIGGEST” question I address after a patient/couple experiences a loss is: “what is the likelihood this will happen again”?
There is a 5-10% recurrence risk in women with a live born child and no previous loss.
There is a 20% recurrence risk in women that have never had a live birth, the risk increases to close to 30% after 2 losses, and 33% after 3 losses.
I’ve had the unfortunate duty of relaying some semblance of the above information twice this week……in closing, I would encourage those of you who have experienced the above to allow yourselves to grieve. No matter how early the pregnancy; a loss is a loss…..know that you are not alone, and embrace the support around you.
I hope this week’s blog has added value to your day!
Until next time,
Look Better. Feel Better. Be Better.
Dr. Angela
