Miscarriage

A miscarriage is a delivery in the first months of the pregnancy where the foetus is not sufficiently developed to live outside of the uterus.

Symptoms of an early miscarriage

Symptoms of an early miscarriage are similar to those of a heavy menstrual period:

• loss of blood through the vagina;
• cramps or pain in the belly.

If you have these symptoms, contact a doctor or gynaecologist.

Causes of miscarriage

There can be many causes of miscarriage. Most often the foetus has a defect and cannot develop well. It may also be the result of, for example, an infection, a hormone disorder or poor implantation in the uterus. Often it is unclear what causes a miscarriage. Usually a miscarriage has no influence on a future pregnancy.

A miscarriage is not the mother’s fault. Normal physical activities, like walking or cycling, are never the cause of a miscarriage.

Sex during pregnancy is not harmful to the foetus. You can have sexual intercourse unless the doctor advises you not to.

Grief

A pregnant woman and her partner can become quickly attached to an unborn baby. When the foetus dies, this can cause deep sorrow.

Both partners have a right to grieve. They have to deal with the loss and find a place in their life for it. Talk about it to each other or with one of the health professionals below.