Understanding What Causes Miscarriage: A Gentle Guide To Early Pregnancy Loss

Susie Lakin 16 Aug 2025

Experiencing a miscarriage can be a truly heart-wrenching time. It brings with it so many questions, so much sadness, and often a deep need to understand why this happened. You might feel a mix of emotions, and that, you know, is perfectly normal. Many people search for answers, trying to make sense of something that feels so unfair.

When a pregnancy ends unexpectedly before 20 weeks, it is called a miscarriage. This event, which may cause immense sorrow, touches many families. It is a common experience, more so than some people might think. Finding information about what causes miscarriage can help you feel a little less alone, and perhaps, offer some peace.

This article aims to gently explain some of the known factors behind early pregnancy loss. We will talk about the different things that can make this happen. We want to provide clear, helpful information. We hope it helps anyone looking for answers about the causes of miscarriage, especially in this time, late 2023.

Understanding Miscarriage: A Common Experience

What is a Miscarriage?
How Common Are They?

The Main Reasons Behind Miscarriage: Chromosomal Issues

When Genes Go Awry
It's Not Your Fault

Other Factors That May Contribute to Miscarriage

Maternal Health Conditions

Hormone Imbalances
Thyroid Problems
Diabetes
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Uterine or Cervical Concerns

Uterine Shape
Weakened Cervix

Infections
Lifestyle Choices and Environmental Exposures

Smoking and Alcohol
Certain Medications
Environmental Toxins

Age of the Parents

Factors That Do Not Typically Cause Miscarriage

Everyday Activities
Stress and Emotions

When to Seek Medical Advice
Coping and Healing After Miscarriage
Frequently Asked Questions About Miscarriage

Understanding Miscarriage: A Common Experience

What is a Miscarriage?

A miscarriage is the spontaneous loss of a pregnancy. This happens before the fetus can survive on its own outside the womb. This point is usually around 20 weeks of pregnancy. Most miscarriages, you know, happen much earlier than that. They often occur within the first 12 weeks. This time is called the first trimester. It is a very early pregnancy loss.

Sometimes, a miscarriage happens so early that a person might not even know they were pregnant. They might just think it is a late or heavy period. This can make it hard to tell what causes miscarriage in every single case. The body, in a way, handles it on its own.

How Common Are They?

Miscarriages are, quite frankly, more common than many people realize. About 10 to 20 percent of known pregnancies end in miscarriage. This number could be even higher. It is because, as I was saying, some early losses go unnoticed. So, many families, you know, go through this experience. It is a widespread event, really.

This means that if you have experienced a miscarriage, you are not alone. Many others have shared this path. It is a common part of the human experience, sadly. There is no single factor that causes all such tragedies. Instead, there are many different reasons. We will explore these reasons. This helps to understand what causes miscarriage for different people.

The Main Reasons Behind Miscarriage: Chromosomal Issues

When Genes Go Awry

The vast majority of miscarriages, something like 50 to 70 percent, happen because of chromosome problems. Chromosomes are tiny structures inside our cells. They carry our genes. Genes are the instructions for building a baby. When a baby is conceived, it gets chromosomes from both parents. One set from the egg, one set from the sperm.

Sometimes, there is an error when the egg and sperm meet. Or, it can happen as the fertilized egg starts to divide. This error means the baby gets too many or too few chromosomes. Or, the chromosomes might be arranged incorrectly. This, you know, makes it hard for the baby to grow. The body, basically, recognizes that the pregnancy cannot develop properly. It then, in a way, stops the pregnancy.

These chromosome issues are random. They are not usually inherited from the parents. They are just, you know, a chance event. It is like a building plan with a missing page. The body, therefore, cannot complete the building. This is the primary thing that makes something happen in many miscarriages. It is the main cause of early pregnancy loss.

It's Not Your Fault

It is very important to understand this point. Chromosomal problems are not caused by anything the parents did or did not do. You cannot, for example, prevent these errors from happening. They are, in fact, beyond anyone's control. This is not about diet, or exercise, or even stress. It is a biological fluke, really.

Many people feel guilt after a miscarriage. They wonder if they did something wrong. They might ask, "Is this the only factor that causes such tragedies?" But for most miscarriages, the answer is no. The primary reason is often these random genetic errors. It is not something you could have changed. You are not to blame for this kind of loss. This is a very important reason for having particular feelings of sadness, but not guilt.

Other Factors That May Contribute to Miscarriage

While chromosome issues are the most common cause, other factors can also play a role. These factors are less frequent. But they can, you know, contribute to a miscarriage. Sometimes, it is a mix of things. It is not always a singular factor. There can be several things that make something happen. So, it is not always easy to pinpoint just one cause.

Maternal Health Conditions

A person's health can sometimes affect a pregnancy. Certain ongoing health problems which may cause complications. These conditions need careful management. They can, you know, increase the risk of miscarriage.

Hormone Imbalances

Hormones are chemical messengers in the body. They help a pregnancy grow. If hormone levels are not quite right, it can sometimes affect the pregnancy. For example, low progesterone levels, which may cause problems. Progesterone helps the uterus prepare for and maintain pregnancy. If it is too low, the uterine lining might not be strong enough. This can lead to, you know, an early loss.

Thyroid Problems

The thyroid gland makes hormones that control many body functions. Both an overactive thyroid and an underactive thyroid can, in some cases, increase miscarriage risk. It is important for thyroid levels to be balanced. This is, you know, for a healthy pregnancy to continue.

Diabetes

If a person has diabetes and their blood sugar levels are not well controlled, it can be a problem. Very high blood sugar levels, which may cause issues for the developing baby. This can, you know, increase the chance of miscarriage. Managing blood sugar before and during pregnancy is very important.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is a common hormone condition. It can affect a person's ability to get pregnant. It can also, in some cases, increase the risk of miscarriage. This is due to hormone imbalances. People with PCOS may have higher levels of certain hormones. These higher levels, which may cause problems for a pregnancy.

Uterine or Cervical Concerns

Problems with the uterus or cervix can also be a cause. The uterus is where the baby grows. The cervix is the opening to the uterus.

Uterine Shape

Some people have a uterus that is not a typical shape. It might be divided or have a septum. These differences in shape, which may cause problems for a growing pregnancy. The baby might not have enough space to grow. Or, the blood supply to parts of the uterus might be affected. This can, you know, lead to miscarriage.

Weakened Cervix

Sometimes, the cervix can open too early in pregnancy. This is called an incompetent cervix. It means the cervix is not strong enough to hold the pregnancy. This can, you know, lead to a late miscarriage. It is not as common as early miscarriages. But it is a factor that can make something happen.

Infections

Certain infections can also be a risk. Infections that spread to the uterus, which may cause problems for the pregnancy. These can include infections like rubella, cytomegalovirus (CMV), or even some sexually transmitted infections. Treating infections before or during pregnancy is important. This helps to protect the baby. It is, you know, a way to reduce risk.

Lifestyle Choices and Environmental Exposures

Some things in a person's daily life or environment can also play a part. These are factors that people can often change or avoid. They can, in a way, influence the health of a pregnancy. It is about making healthy choices.

Smoking and Alcohol

Smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol during pregnancy can increase the risk of miscarriage. The chemicals in cigarettes, which may cause harm to the developing baby. Alcohol can also be very harmful. It is best to avoid both completely when trying to get pregnant and during pregnancy. This is, you know, a clear way to help protect a pregnancy.

Certain Medications

Some medications are not safe to take during pregnancy. They can, in some cases, increase the risk of miscarriage. It is very important to talk to a doctor about any medicines you are taking. This includes prescription drugs and over-the-counter ones. Your doctor can tell you which ones are safe. They can, you know, help you find alternatives if needed.

Environmental Toxins

Exposure to certain chemicals in the environment can also be a concern. Things like lead, arsenic, or high levels of radiation, which may cause harm. It is good to be aware of your surroundings. Try to avoid places with known harmful chemicals. This is, in fact, a way to keep yourself and a pregnancy safe.

Age of the Parents

The age of the parents can also be a factor. This is especially true for the mother's age. As a person gets older, the risk of miscarriage goes up. This is because the quality of eggs tends to decline with age. Older eggs are more likely to have chromosome errors. This is, you know, a natural biological process.

For example, a person in their 20s has about a 10% chance of miscarriage. By age 40, this chance increases to around 40%. For those over 45, it can be as high as 80%. The father's age can also play a role, though it is less pronounced. Older sperm, which may cause genetic issues too. So, age is, you know, a contributing factor for many.

Factors That Do Not Typically Cause Miscarriage

It is common for people to worry about everyday activities after a miscarriage. They might wonder if something they did caused it. But many common activities do not, in fact, cause miscarriage. It is important to know this. This helps to ease worry. It is about separating fact from common myths.

Everyday Activities

Things like exercise, lifting light objects, or having sex do not typically cause miscarriage. Normal activities are usually safe during pregnancy. Travel, for example, is also generally safe. Unless a doctor advises against it, you know, these things are fine. The body is designed to protect a pregnancy. It is quite robust, actually.

A fall or a minor bump, which may cause worry, rarely leads to miscarriage. The baby is well-protected inside the womb. It is cushioned by fluid and surrounded by strong muscles. So, unless it is a very severe trauma, these events are not the cause. This is, you know, a relief for many people.

Stress and Emotions

Emotional stress, even very high stress, does not typically cause miscarriage. While stress is not good for overall health, it does not directly lead to pregnancy loss. This is a common concern. Many people feel stress during pregnancy. They worry if their feelings are, you know, somehow harming the baby. But this is not the case.

Similarly, feeling upset, or having particular feelings of worry, does not cause a miscarriage. Miscarriages are usually due to biological reasons. They are not a result of a person's emotional state. This is, you know, an important point to remember. It helps to reduce guilt. It gives a reason for having particular feelings without blame.

When to Seek Medical Advice

If you experience any signs of miscarriage, it is important to contact a doctor. Signs can include bleeding or cramping. Even if you are unsure, you know, it is always best to get checked. A medical professional can offer guidance. They can help you understand what is happening. This is, you know, a very important step.

If you have had multiple miscarriages, your doctor might suggest tests. These tests can look for underlying causes. They can help figure out if there is a specific reason. This is, you know, about finding answers. It can help with future pregnancies. There can be disagreement as to the causes in some cases. But tests can sometimes shed light.

Coping and Healing After Miscarriage

Losing a pregnancy is a profound loss. It can be a very difficult time. It is okay to feel sad, angry, or confused. These are all valid feelings. Allow yourself time to grieve. Seek support from loved ones. Talk about your feelings. This can help with the healing process. Many people find comfort in sharing their story. You are not alone in this experience. Remember, there are resources available to help you through this. Support groups and counseling can be very helpful. Learn more about coping with loss on our site, and link to this page for more support.

Frequently Asked Questions About Miscarriage

Can stress really cause a miscarriage?

No, stress itself does not typically cause a miscarriage. While stress can affect your overall health, it is not a direct cause of pregnancy loss. Miscarriages are usually due to biological issues, like chromosome problems. So, feeling worried or stressed, you know, does not make a miscarriage happen.

Does exercise increase the risk of miscarriage?

Generally, no. Regular, moderate exercise is usually safe during pregnancy. It does not increase the risk of miscarriage. Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, you know, continuing your normal activity is fine. Strenuous exercise, like very heavy lifting, might be a concern. But everyday activity is not a problem.

Is it possible to prevent a miscarriage?

Many miscarriages, especially those caused by chromosome problems, cannot be prevented. They are, you know, random events. However, managing existing health conditions, avoiding harmful substances like smoking and alcohol, and taking prenatal vitamins can help reduce some risks. It is about giving your body the best chance. But it does not mean every miscarriage can be stopped.

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