Miscarriage Prevention

Many miscarriages occur due to severe genetic abnormalities which cannot be prevented. In such cases, the woman's body typically ends the pregnancy in the early stages. In many cases, though, a doctor cannot determine exactly what caused a miscarriage. Doctors do, however, have suggestions for preventing miscarriages, and there are a few conditions that are known to cause miscarriages which should be treated before trying to become pregnant.

Guidelines for Preventing Miscarriages

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle before and during pregnancy will increase your chances of conceiving; as well as provide a healthy environment for your baby once you become pregnant, thus minimizing the risks of suffering a miscarriage.

Before Becoming Pregnant

Before you become pregnant, it is important to become as healthy as you can by:

• Eating a healthy diet
• Exercising regularly
• Taking daily folic acid supplements
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Managing stress

During Pregnancy

Once pregnancy is confirmed, you should also:

• Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages
• Not smoke and avoid second-hand smoke
• Not use illegal drugs and not misuse prescription drugs
• Limit or eliminate your consumption of caffeine
• Protect your abdomen, and avoid sports or activities that include any risk of injury
• Avoid exposure to radiation, including X-rays, and other environmental hazards
• Consult with your doctor before taking non-prescription medications, including NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen

Preventable Miscarriages

Although the majority of miscarriages are caused by genetic problems that cannot be prevented, there are a few treatable conditions that have been known to cause pregnancy loss.

Hormone Deficiencies

Some miscarriages are caused by a deficiency in progesterone, which is needed to sustain pregnancy. Women who don't produce enough progesterone in the beginning of pregnancy may experience repeated miscarriages. Progesterone supplements may help to prevent such miscarriages.

Infections and Illnesses

Certain serious infections, including STDs, can cause miscarriages. Similarly, illnesses, such as immune system disorders, lupus, diabetes, thyroid disease, heart disease, and kidney disease, can cause miscarriages as well. It is important to speak with your doctor to determine if you have any of these conditions, and if you do, it is important to seek treatment to increase your chance of having a healthy pregnancy.

Physical Problems

Women who have certain physical problems may experience recurrent miscarriages. Fertility problems due to an irregularly shaped uterus may require corrective surgery. Miscarriages due to a weak cervix may be minimized with a cervical stitch to hold the cervix closed during pregnancy.

Contact a Fertility Expert near You

If you and your partner are having trouble conceiving, or if you have had a miscarriage, a fertility doctor can help you determine the cause of your fertility problems and recommend proper treatments. You can use DocShop's nationwide directory to find a fertility expert in your area.