Miscarriage or spontaneous abortion is a pregnancy that ends on its own, usually before 20th week of pregnancy.

Causes

• Chromosomal abnormality in fetus
• Certain medical conditions like diabetes, hypothyroidism, uterine fibroids, endometriosis, poly-cystic ovarian disease (PCOD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), rubella, herpes, sexually transmitted diseases (STD’s) etc. in the mother
• Hormonal problems in the mother
• Excessive consumption of alcohol, caffeine and tobacco
• Physical trauma

Symptoms

• Vaginal bleeding
• Abdominal pain and cramps
• Low back or pelvic pain
• Passage of tissue and clots from the vagina

Treatment

• Observation to let body expel the fetal tissue completely on its own
• Dilation and curettage (D&C) to aid in expulsion and stop bleeding
• Medication to control bleeding

Prevention
Miscarriage can not be prevented always but risk can be reduced by:

• Eating a healthy and balanced diet
• Avoiding alcohol, tobacco and caffeine
• Avoiding physical injury or trauma
• Avoiding and promptly treating any infections
• Getting prenatal care and advice