How can I prevent miscarriage?
Based on the study carried out by the National Infertility Association and contrary to the common belief, nearly 70% of pregnancies end in miscarriage; with more than 50% of losses being undetected and mistaken for a period. Previously it was believed that only 15-20% of pregnancies end in miscarriage. These figures seem small to the alarmingly high numbers being reported today.
The 2 most common reasons for a miscarriage to occur are:
- The product of pregnancy - the embryo being damaged could not develop into a healthy baby.
- The environment - embryo's environment did not support its healthy development.
In both the cases the culprit can be found on a cellular level.
Chromosomal abnormalities, immune abnormalities as well as progesterone deficiency are some of the main reasons of miscarriages. However these don't exist without a cause.
The delicate internal balance between the hormones, nutrients and toxins in both the partners determines what you will be passing onto the embryo and how the body reacts to it.
The bottom line is - Healthy Couples are Fertile Couples!
How to minimize the risk of miscarriage?
Miscarriages are increasing in number each day. They leave the parents shaken, guilty and grieving. Though there are specific reasons for miscarriage, most of the miscarriages are under the control of the parents. Following are certain steps that can be followed in order to reduce the risk of miscarriages -
- Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of losing the baby. The risk of miscarriage increases with increase in the number of cigarettes that you smoke. Active smoking is risky, and passive smoking is no less.
- Avoid excess alcohol and caffeine: Drinking alcohol every day also increases the risk of miscarriage. Similar is the case with caffeine. 4 to 5 cups of coffee per day increases the chances of miscarriages.
- High levels of radiation and poison need to be avoided as they have formaldehyde, benzene, arsenic, lead, and ethylene oxide that may lead to miscarriages.
- Avoid jerking the abdomen since it may hurt the fetus.
- Consult the doctor for all medications, because there are certain drugs that cause fetal abnormalities and miscarriage.
- Increase intake of folic acid. Researches have found out that folic acid not only reduces the worst form of birth defects like neural tube defects, but also reduces the risk of miscarriages. A healthy as well as a balanced diet plays an important role in a healthy pregnancy.
- Protection from infectious hazards such as viruses is essential as they infect the fetus when the mother gets infected during the pregnancy. Women working in schools, hospitals, emergency wards and childcare are prone to viruses. They need to wear protective gears while handling blood products.
- Lifting heavy items should be totally avoided. Pregnant women have a higher progesterone hormone that makes the body of the women more flexible and thus increases the chances of injuries.
- Loud noises, flying in unpressurized planes, etc, should be avoided during pregnancy as it can lead to premature birth or miscarriages.
- Excessive temperature variation also contributes in effecting the health of pregnant women.
- There are some things you can have in moderation during pregnancy. These items include coffee, tea and chocolate. However these should be consumed in very small, moderate quantities.
- Controlling your diet and eating healthy leads you to a healthy pregnancy while minimizing chances of miscarriage
- Milk and other dairy products as well as fresh fruits and veggies need to be included in your diet
It's better to protect yourself and take necessary precautions rather than losing your baby. Eat healthy and be cautious because there is another life inside of you!
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