Miscarriages are more common than many people realize, with approximately 23 million pregnancies ending in miscarriage each year worldwide. Despite this high number, miscarriage is still a taboo topic, often leaving those affected feeling isolated and emotionally distressed. Myths and misconceptions can add to the stigma, causing many to unjustly blame themselves. In reality, most miscarriages are unavoidable and caused by factors beyond anyone’s control.
For a deeper understanding of pregnancy loss and treatment, check out the video by Nassim Assefi and Emily M. Godfrey. Or, continue reading to learn more about this important topic.
Explore what happens in the body during miscarriage, and learn about three common treatment options for pregnancy loss.
What Happens During a Miscarriage?
Nassim Assefi and Emily M. Godfrey explain that pregnancy is a complex process requiring a delicate balance between the fertilized egg and the uterus. Out of every three fertilized eggs, only one progresses to live birth. Most miscarriages occur within the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. During this time, hormones like progesterone, estrogen, and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) maintain the pregnancy.
If an egg is fertilized, it begins producing hCG, which signals the ovaries to continue releasing hormones and halts menstruation. However, up to one-third of fertilized eggs fail to attach properly and pass undetected during a normal menstrual period. Even if the egg attaches, chromosomal abnormalities can cause irregular development or halt embryo growth entirely.
Symptoms and Treatment Options
Symptoms of miscarriage can vary from few noticeable signs to significant bleeding and cramping. Treatment options include:
- Watch-and-Wait Method: This involves waiting for pregnancy hormones to drop further, allowing the pregnancy tissue to be released naturally. This approach is effective up to 90% of the time but can involve weeks of unpredictable pain and bleeding.
- Medication: Taking mifepristone and misoprostol to induce labor-like contractions and expel the pregnancy tissue. This process normally takes 1 to 6 hours and can be done privately at home.
- Vacuum Aspiration: A five-minute procedure where a healthcare provider removes the pregnancy tissue with a thin tube.
The choice of treatment depends on the person’s medical history, timeline, and preferences. All three methods are safe and effective.
Access to Care
Over half the world’s population lacks access to basic health care, including essential reproductive health services. Because miscarriage treatments are the same as those used in induced abortions, they can be harder to access and even criminalized in some areas.
At Planned Parenthood of Orange and San Bernardino Counties, we provide the care and support you need. If you or someone you know is experiencing a miscarriage, reach out to us. You are not alone.
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