Threatened miscarriage

Overview Of Threatened miscarriage

A threatened miscarriage, also known as a threatened abortion, refers to vaginal bleeding during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy, accompanied by a closed cervix and a viable fetus. This condition suggests a potential for miscarriage but does not confirm it.

Causes of Threatened miscarriage

• The exact cause of a threatened miscarriage is often unknown. However, potential factors include: - Implantation bleeding: Light bleeding when the fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. - Subchorionic hemorrhage: Bleeding between the uterine wall and the placenta. - Infections: Certain infections can lead to bleeding. - Hormonal imbalances: Low progesterone levels may contribute. - Physical trauma: Injury to the abdomen. - Uterine abnormalities: Structural issues with the uterus. - Cervical issues: Weakness or incompetence of the cervix.

Risk Factors of Threatened miscarriage

• Factors that may increase the risk of a threatened miscarriage include: - Advanced maternal age: Women over 35 years old. - Previous miscarriages: A history of recurrent miscarriages. - Chronic health conditions: Such as diabetes or thyroid disorders. - Lifestyle factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, or drug use. - High caffeine intake: Consuming more than 200 mg of caffeine per day. - Stress: High levels of physical or emotional stress.

Prevention of Threatened miscarriage

• While not all cases are preventable, measures to reduce risk include: - Regular prenatal care: Attending all scheduled appointments. - Healthy lifestyle: Maintaining a balanced diet, exercising moderately, and avoiding harmful substances. - Stress management: Engaging in relaxation techniques and seeking support when needed.

Prognosis of Threatened miscarriage

• The prognosis for a threatened miscarriage varies. Approximately 83% of pregnancies with threatened miscarriage continue to term.

Complications of Threatened miscarriage

• Potential complications include: - Progression to miscarriage: Some threatened miscarriages result in complete pregnancy loss. - Infection: If tissue is retained, it may lead to infection. - Emotional distress: Experiencing anxiety and stress during the uncertain period.

Related Diseases of Threatened miscarriage

• Conditions associated with threatened miscarriage include: - Ectopic pregnancy: A pregnancy occurring outside the uterus, often in a fallopian tube. - Molar pregnancy: An abnormal growth of trophoblasts, the cells that normally develop into the placenta. - Cervical insufficiency: A condition where the cervix dilates prematurely, leading to potential pregnancy loss.

Treatment of Threatened miscarriage

Management strategies may include: - **Rest**: Advising rest and avoiding strenuous activities. - **Monitoring**: Regular follow-up appointments to monitor the pregnancy. - **Medications**: In some cases, progesterone supplements or other medications may be prescribed. - **Lifestyle modifications**: Encouraging cessation of smoking, alcohol, and caffeine. - **Avoiding sexual intercourse**: Recommending abstinence during the bleeding period.