Procedures
Early pregnancy loss
Overview
Early pregnancy loss, also known as miscarriage, is an event that results in the loss of the fetus before 20 weeks of pregnancy. This normally occurs during the first trimester, or during the first three months of the pregnancy.
Miscarriages occur due to a variety of medical reasons such as:
- Genetic or chromosome issues – In a developing foetus, each set of chromosomes are contributed by both the mother and the father. Errors may occur randomly, such as the cells of the embryo dividing or due to a damaged sperm or egg cell.
- Underlying condition and lifestyle habits – Certain health conditions and lifestyle habits may interfere with the development of the fetus. These conditions include malnutrition, untreated thyroid disease, hormonal problems, severe high blood pressure, abnormally shaped uterus, cervix problems, etc.
What are the signs and symptoms of miscarriage?
In most cases, miscarriages occur before week 12 of pregnancy. Signs and symptoms of a miscarriage may include:
- Vaginal spotting or bleeding
- Pain or cramping in your abdomen or lower back
- Fluid or tissue passing from the vagina
It is important that you seek immediate medical attention if you are experiencing these symptoms. However, some women who experience vaginal spotting or bleeding during the first trimester may have successful pregnancies.
How are miscarriages treated?
The use of an ultrasound makes it easier for the obstetrician to determine whether an embryo has died or did not form. Miscarriage treatment depends on the type of miscarriage you had. Dr Hlabisa may recommend the following:
- Expectant management – This is when you allow the miscarriage to progress naturally. Normally, this happens within a couple of weeks after determining that the embryo has died.
- Medical treatment – This involves Dr Hlabisa prescribing medication to help pass the rest of the remaining tissue after a diagnosis of a miscarriage. Medication may be inserted in the vagina or taken by mouth.
- Surgical treatment – This involves a minor surgical procedure called suction dilation and curettage (D&C). During this procedure, Dr Hlabisa will dilate your cervix and remove tissue from your uterus. This procedure is recommended if you had a miscarriage that is accompanied by heavy bleeding or some signs of infection.
