Debunking the myths about pregnancy loss

Dr Sue Smith of the International Medical Clinic explains fact from fiction.

Fiction: STRESS CAN CAUSE A MISCARRIAGE

There is no evidence that stress causes miscarriage per se, though stress is (of course) not good for general health.

Fiction: AFTER 12 WEEKS, MISCARRIAGE DOESN’T HAPPEN

While the rates of miscarriage are much lower after 12 weeks, there is still at least a 1 per cent chance of miscarriage from week 13 onwards.

Fiction: ALL BLEEDING MEANS MISCARRIAGE

Bleeding can happen during pregnancy for many reasons, and it doesn’t necessarily mean a miscarriage, though it is, of course, very scary. If there is any bleeding, it is worth seeing your doctor to ascertain the cause.

Fact: IF A MISCARRIAGE HAPPENS ONCE, IT WILL HAPPEN AGAIN

The vast majority of women will go on to have a healthy pregnancy after a miscarriage, and 1 per cent of women will have another. With two or more miscarriages, this risk increases. This is why investigations are usually performed after more than one miscarriage to look for a treatable cause. You should discuss this with your doctor.

Fiction: EXERCISE CAN CAUSE A MISCARRIAGE

There is no evidence that exercise causes miscarriage. In fact, exercise is good for general health and should be continued during pregnancy to reduce the risk of miscarriage.