Can I Prevent an Early Miscarriage?
Can I Prevent an Early Miscarriage?
From the day that pregnancy test turned positive, you were daydreaming about what your baby would look like, how you’d decorate the nursery, and all the flurry and excitement you’d feel around your baby shower.
You’re filled with joy and euphoria about having a baby, especially if you’ve been trying for a while. But hiding deep below that jubilation is fear. A single question rises to the surface of your mind, dispersing those happy thoughts: What if I have an early miscarriage?
According to research by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 10-25 percent of all clinically recognized pregnancies result in miscarriage. If you’ve miscarried before, you know the physical and emotional toll it takes on you. And if you haven’t ever miscarried before, the possibility is unbearable. Losing your child as he or she grows inside of you is one of the most heartbreaking experiences a mother-to-be can go through.
While there are no guaranteed ways to prevent a miscarriage from occurring, there are some ways you can lower your chances of having one. Let’s take a closer look at the causes of miscarriage and the things you can do that may help prevent you from having a miscarriage.
The Causes of Early Miscarriages
The truth is most miscarriages occur when the unborn baby has fatal genetic problems. You can breathe a sigh of relief because in most cases, these problems have nothing to do with you as the mother.
Sometimes, however, a miscarriage may be the result of a uterine abnormality, infection, or a hormone issue you may have. Keep in mind that if you are over 35 years of age, have diabetes or thyroid disease, and/or have had three or more miscarriages, you may be at a higher risk of facing an early miscarriage. If any of these risk factors apply to you, talk with your doctor and see if they can provide any medical advice or recommendations.
5 Ways to Prevent an Early Miscarriage
Most early miscarriages are caused by genetic abnormalities that are completely out of your control. The good news, however, is that leading a healthy life before and after your pregnancy may help you prevent an early miscarriage. Here are some tips we highly recommend:
1. Schedule a Pre-Conception Visit
If you’re not pregnant yet, a pre-conception appointment with your gynecologist should be at the top of your to-do list. During this time, your gynecologist will ask you questions about your lifestyle, review your medical history, and perform an annual example if you’re due for one. They’ll also let you know if there’s anything you need to be concerned about before getting pregnant. You can even ask them if there’s anything in your medical or family history that could cause an early miscarriage.
2. Eat a Nutritious, Well-Balanced Diet
Taking a prenatal vitamin is only one piece of the puzzle. Even if you’re taking one, you need to stick to a nutritious, well-balanced diet. This way, you can ensure your body gets the vitamins and nutrients it needs to properly nourish you and your baby. Fill your grocery cart with plenty of fruits, veggies, whole grains, and lean protein.
3. Exercise in Moderation
If you’re a fitness junkie, rest assured that once you’re pregnant, you can resume your usual workout routine. However, if you decide to do so, make sure you are exercising in moderation. Research has shown that seven hours or more of high intensity exercise each week while pregnant may increase miscarriage risk. Also, save contact sports like soccer and hockey for after you’ve had your baby. The good news is that exercise is known to lower stress, giving your pregnancy less of a chance to end in a stress miscarriage.
4. Take Control of Stress
In addition to improving your mood, staying relaxed can lead to a healthier pregnancy and lower your chance of a miscarriage. For just general stress from time to time, do your best to calm down with things like a warm bath, reading a good book, listening to soothing music, or doing fun activities with friends and family. If you’re struggling with ongoing stress or anxiety, try to work meditation or yoga into your daily routine.
5. Ask Your Doctor About Your Medications
Be sure to let your gynecologist know of any over the counter or prescription medications you may be taking. You may be taking a medication such as an ACE inhibitor for your heart, which can cause fetal malformations and raise your risk of a miscarriage.
King’s Daughters’ Health Obstetricians: Your Go-To Pregnancy Resource
If you’re concerned about having an early miscarriage and would like to decrease your chances of one, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with our compassionate, highly knowledgeable obstetricians. Contact us today for more information on our OB-GYN team and the maternity care services we offer. Call 812.801.0856.