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Understanding miscarriage
A miscarriage is the spontaneous loss of a pregnancy before 20 weeks. It occurs in approximately 25% of recognized pregnancies, whether conception occurs naturally or through IVF (In Vitro Fertilization).
The most common signs of miscarriage include vaginal bleeding and cramping or discomfort in the lower abdomen. However, experiencing these symptoms does not necessarily indicate pregnancy loss. Mild spotting or light bleeding can occur during the first trimester and often resolves without intervention.
Undergoing IVF treatment does not increase the overall risk of miscarriage. In fact, when PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy) is used to screen embryos for chromosomal normality, it can help improve the likelihood of a healthy, ongoing pregnancy and live birth by supporting the transfer of the most viable embryo.
If you notice any concerning symptoms, please contact your care team promptly for personalized guidance.
Common Causes of Miscarriage
Chromosomal or Genetic Abnormalities: The majority of early pregnancy losses occur due to random genetic or chromosomal anomalies in the embryo or fetus. These are typically spontaneous errors in cell division and are not inherited or preventable.
Uterine or Anatomical Factors: Structural conditions such as endometrial polyps, fibroids, or congenital uterine variations may interfere with implantation or healthy pregnancy progression.
Maternal Health Conditions: Certain chronic medical conditions—including uncontrolled hypertension, diabetes, or thyroid disorders—can increase miscarriage risk when not well-managed. Optimizing health before and during pregnancy supports better outcomes.
Debunking Common Myths: What Does Not Cause Miscarriage
Many patients worry that everyday activities or past choices may have contributed to pregnancy loss. Current medical evidence shows that the following are not independent causes of miscarriage:
• Everyday stress, occasional sleep disruption, or routine physical activity (including moderate lifting)
• Sexual intercourse during a healthy, uncomplicated pregnancy
• A prior elective abortion or termination (when performed safely and without complications)
Understanding Miscarriage and Future Fertility
Recurrent Miscarriage: Prevalence and Causes
Recurrent pregnancy loss—defined as two or more consecutive miscarriages—affects approximately 1–2% of women trying to conceive. Despite comprehensive evaluation, a specific cause remains unidentified in about 50% of cases. When causes are identified, they may include:
• Immune factors, such as antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), which can affect placental development • Hormonal imbalances, including abnormalities in progesterone, thyroid function, or prolactin levels, which may impact early pregnancy maintenance
A Single Miscarriage: What It Means for Your Future
Pregnancy loss is most often an isolated event. Experiencing one miscarriage does not mean you are likely to experience another. In fact:
• The vast majority of patients go on to have successful, healthy pregnancies afterward • A prior loss is generally not predictive of future outcomes when no underlying condition is present If you have concerns about recurrent loss or personal risk factors, our team offers specialized evaluation and personalized support. Many causes of recurrent miscarriage are treatable, and with appropriate care, most patients achieve their goal of a live birth.Moving Forward with Confidence
Factors that Influence Fertility Beyond Miscarriage
Age and Fertility Decline
Fertility naturally decreases with age, with a more noticeable decline typically beginning around age 35. By age 40, the chance of achieving a natural pregnancy in any given cycle is approximately 5–10%, primarily due to age-related changes in egg quality and ovarian reserve. While age plays a central role, several other factors can further affect reproductive potential:
- Weight and Metabolic Balance: Significant underweight (e.g., related to eating disorders) or overweight/obesity may disrupt hormonal signaling and ovulation, impacting both natural conception and treatment success.
- Lifestyle considerations: Inadequate nutrition, smoking, and regular or heavy alcohol use can affect egg and sperm health, hormone regulation, and overall reproductive function.
- Environmental Exposures: Long-term exposure to air pollution, industrial chemicals, heavy metals, or radiation may influence fertility. Where possible, reducing avoidable exposures supports reproductive wellness.
- Chronic Health Conditions: Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, thyroid dysfunction, or other systemic health concerns can affect ovulation, implantation, or early pregnancy development. Thoughtful diagnosis and management make a meaningful difference.
If you continuously fail to conceive, send us a request, and one of NGC’s doctors will review your reproductive situation and recommend treatment options.
Underlying Medical Conditions
Certain health conditions may be associated with an increased likelihood of pregnancy loss. Understanding and managing these factors proactively can support healthier outcomes:
- Chromosomal Variations: Differences in chromosome number or structure (karyotype abnormalities) in either partner may affect embryo development.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): This hormonal condition can impact ovulation and early pregnancy maintenance.
- Untreated Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Certain infections, if undiagnosed or untreated, may affect reproductive health.
- Endometriosis: This condition, where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, may influence implantation or early pregnancy.
- Obesity and Other Chronic Conditions: Significant weight extremes, uncontrolled diabetes, thyroid disorders, or autoimmune conditions may affect reproductive function.
Comprehensive Fertility Evaluation and Lifestyle Improvement
If you are planning a pregnancy and have any of the mentioned conditions—or suspect you might—consulting your fertility specialist or healthcare provider is an important first step. Daily habits play a significant role in reproductive health, influencing egg and sperm quality as well as early fetal development. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is often essential for achieving conception and supporting a full-term pregnancy.
Every patient's journey is unique. With thoughtful preparation and expert support, many of these conditions can be effectively managed to support a healthy pregnancy.
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