What causes miscarriages?

In the vast majority of first trimester cases, miscarriage occurs as a result of problems with the chromosomes in the foetus. A healthy foetus should inherit a set of 46 chromosomes, 23 from their mother and 23 from their father; however, sometimes this goes wrong and the foetus ends up with too many or too few chromosomes and this can result in miscarriage.

Usually, second trimester miscarriages result from underlying health problems in the mother; for example, women with long-term conditions such as diabetes, lupus and hypertension (high blood pressure) are more likely to suffer a miscarriage during the second trimester of the pregnancy. Short-term infections, including rubella (German measles) and toxoplasmosis can also contribute to miscarriage.

Other possible causes of miscarriage include problems with the structure of the womb, a weak cervix, polycystic ovarian syndrome and conditions which affect the production of antibodies (this includes Hughes syndrome, which causes the body to produce a high level of aPL (antiphospholipid) antibodies; these antibodies can cause clotting which can cut off the blood supply to the foetus).

FAQS Index : Miscarriage FAQ

Miscarriage FAQ

1. What is a miscarriage?
2. How common are miscarriages?
3. What causes miscarriages?
4. Are there any risk factors?
5. What are the signs and symptoms of a miscarriage?

6. What happens after a miscarriage?
7. Are there any ways to prevent miscarriage?
8. How long should I wait to try and conceive again?
9. What help is available for women who have had miscarriages?
10. Will I be able to get pregnant if I’ve already had a miscarriage?