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Pregnancy Loss

Miscarriage is very common. Up to one third of all pregnancies miscarry. Repetitive miscarriage is not common. Only 1-2% of women will experience 2 or 3 miscarriages in a row. After 3 miscarriages the risk of additional miscarriages increases to over 80%. Patients can start the evaluation and treatment of repetitive miscarriage after 2 losses, especially if they are over 35 years old. The evaluation is extensive including imaging and an exhaustive lab panel. If a reason for repetitive miscarriages is found and treated, the 80% loss rate returns to normal around 30%. This testing and treatment can be started slowly or an all in one cycle. During a scheduled consult, Dr. Coussons can explain and recommend the right evaluation based on your history, values and goals. This is a valuable visit and helps organize a complex topic. This consult can be scheduled in person or remotely, and treatment for some patients can be prescribed after an online consult with Dr. Coussons. 

Patients Speak from

Personal Experience

"I really like his partnership approach, that he would really listen to my concerns- let me cry a little bit when it was appropriate and then when it was time to stop he'd say 'Alright, then let's find the solution and figure this out together'."

 

-Holly 

Get The Facts  about

About Pregnancy Loss

A miscarriage is a pregnancy that ends before the first 20 weeks of gestation. Most miscarriages occur during the first 13 weeks of pregnancy. Pregnancy can be such an amazing time, but with the number of recorded miscarriages that occur, it can be helpful to learn more. ​

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Miscarriage is the most common type of pregnancy loss, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Studies reveal that up to 30% of all clinically recognized pregnancies will end in miscarriage.

Frequently Asked Questions
    Why do miscarriages happen?

        The reason for miscarriage is not completely understood. During the first trimester, the most common cause of miscarriage is chromosomal abnormalities in the baby and is generally not connected to mom or dad's health. Later losses can be due to medical problems that may recur in more than one pregnancy leading to frequent losses.​

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        Other causes of miscarriage include but are not limited to: ​

        •Exposure to environmental or workplace hazards ​

        •Hormonal problems, infections or maternal health problems ​

        •Lifestyle (smoking, alcohol, drugs, excessive caffeine or other toxic substances) ​

        •Implantation of the egg into the uterine lining does not occur properly ​

        •Maternal age ​

        •Diabetes that is not controlled

    What are the chances of having a Miscarriage?

        The chances of having a miscarriage can range from 10-25% for women in their 20s and increases at the age of 35. Women 35-45 years old have a 20-35% chance of miscarriage and over the age of 45 the chance can increase up to 50%. 

    What are the Warning signs of Miscarriage?

        As with most pregnancy questions, your provider is the best person to talk to and ask questions. If you believe you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, contact Dr. Coussons at (920) 888-2828. If significant pain is associated with the bleeding seek emergent care to avoid complications of ectopic or tubal pregnancy.  Keep in mind, bleeding can happen with a normal pregnancy and doesn’t always mean you are having a miscarriage. 

    Miscarriage Symptoms:

        •Mild-to-severe back or abdominal pain or cramping ​

        •Brown or bright red bleeding with or without cramps ​

        •Blood-clot-like tissue that passes or white-pink mucus ​

        •Decrease signs of pregnancy like weight loss or nausea 

    Treatment of Miscarriage:

        A treatment for miscarriage is to prevent infection and hemorrhaging. A common procedure to stop bleeding and prevent infection is a dilation and curettage, also referred to as a D&C. Many times the pregnancy loss is spontaneous and complete without the need for surgery and there are medical options to treat miscarriage to avoid surgery.

    Prevention of Miscarriage:

        Since the cause of miscarriage is a result of a chromosomal abnormalities, there is not much that can be done preventatively. A healthy lifestyle is the best approach to a healthy conception. ​

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        •Exercise regularly ​

        •Eat healthy ​

        •Manage stress ​

        •Keep weight within healthy limit ​

        •Take folic acid daily ​

        •Do not smoke ​

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        Once you find out that you are pregnant, bump up your healthy lifestyle to support the 

        growth of your baby. ​

        •Do not smoke or be around smoke ​

        •Do not drink alcohol ​

        •Check with your doctor before taking any over-the-counter medications ​

        •Limit or eliminate caffeine ​

        •Avoid environmental hazards such as x-rays, radiation and infectious disease 

    Emotional Support:

        After finding out you have had a miscarriage you are often left with lots of questions regarding your physical, emotional and spiritual recovery along with when to start trying to conceive again. Communicating with your friends and family is so important during this time – always remember Dr Coussons’ team is here whenever you need us. 

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