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Miscarriage (Spontaneous Abortion)

Spontaneous termination of pregnancy before the 20th week is the most common pregnancy complication.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department. Book Appointment →

What is Miscarriage (Spontaneous Abortion)?

Spontaneous abortion is the termination of pregnancy without any intervention before the 20th week. More than 80% of cases occur before the 12th week, and the main cause is fetal genetic anomalies. Clinical forms include inevitable, incomplete, complete, and missed abortion.

Recurrent pregnancy loss is defined as 2 or more consecutive spontaneous abortions and affects approximately 1-2% of women. Underlying causes such as antiphospholipid syndrome, uterine anomalies, chromosomal translocations, and thrombophilia should be investigated.

Pregnancy loss causes not only physical but also a deep emotional burden. Psychological support should be offered to couples along with information about subsequent pregnancy planning.

Symptoms

Vaginal bleeding or spotting
Lower abdominal and back cramps
Sudden decrease in pregnancy signs (nausea, breast tenderness)
Passage of tissue or clots vaginally
Mild fever (in infectious abortion)

Risk Factors

Advanced maternal age (35 and over)
History of previous miscarriage
Smoking, alcohol, and substance use
Uncontrolled diabetes or thyroid disease
Uterine anomalies (septate uterus, fibroid)
Antiphospholipid syndrome

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When any vaginal bleeding starts during pregnancy
  • When severe cramping or pelvic pain is experienced
  • If fever and chills accompany (risk of infectious abortion)
  • When 2 or more consecutive miscarriages occur (recurrent loss investigation)

Treatment Methods

01
Watchful waiting: Awaiting natural completion in incomplete miscarriages
02
Medical treatment: Removal of pregnancy tissue with misoprostol
03
Surgical curettage or vacuum aspiration: In incomplete or missed abortions
04
Cause investigation in recurrent loss: antiphospholipid panel, karyotype, hysteroscopy
05
Aspirin + heparin prophylaxis in antiphospholipid syndrome
06
Psychological support and bereavement counseling

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.