When Miscarriage Occurs

Although only around fifteen percent of pregnancies are known to end in miscarriage, it’s thought that the true figure is much higher and as many as three quarters of all fertilised eggs are lost in this way. Early miscarriage happens quite often before a woman even knows she is pregnant and can be mistaken for a natural, if late, period.

Yes, it's a very common event, but that is little comfort if it happens to you. Many women are shocked by how much a miscarriage affects them. It can be a devastating experience that takes time to overcome. If you have suffered a miscarriage and are finding it difficult to cope, there’s plenty of help available, so don’t be afraid to ask.

While miscarriage can happen to any woman at any age there are some things you can do to reduce your chances. Smoking is a major factor where miscarriage is concerned, as is alcohol. Age is another factor. A woman over thirty has an increased risk of miscarriage, and while there’s nothing you can do if you are pregnant and in this age bracket, it’s worth being aware of the risks.

The good news in all this is that there’s nothing to suggest miscarriage has any bearing on your future chances of carrying a baby to term. Most women who’ve suffered a miscarriage will go on to have healthy pregnancies and babies.