Going through miscarriages can be very difficult. It’s important to understand that a miscarriage is not your fault. Miscarriage can't be prevented and are usually due to a developmental problem or a chromosomal abnormality.
10–25 percent of pregnancies end in miscarriage, and one to five percent of women experience two or more pregnancy losses that don’t progress to term. Less than 1 percent of miscarriages are called stillbirths because they happen after 20 weeks gestation.
Jade Elliott talks with Ware Branch, MD, Ware Branch, MD, a maternal-fetal medicine physician with University of Utah Health and Intermountain Healthcare, on this episode of the Baby Your Baby Podcast to discuss miscarriage.
What are the symptoms of a miscarriage?
Bleeding and spotting are the most common signs of miscarriage. Cramping can also happen. These symptoms don’t always mean you are miscarrying. It is important to talk with your doctor if you are experiencing any of these signs. Women may also see large clots or tissue discharge from their vagina.
What causes miscarriage?
Genetic abnormalities is one of the common causes of a miscarriage. As many as 50–70 percent of all early pregnancy loss occurs because the embryo has too much or too little genetic material. Pre-existing medical conditions may also play a role. Those conditions include immune system issues, thyroid/hormonal issues, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) and RH factor. Lifestyle, like alcohol and drug use may also play a role as well as the age of the mother.
Can a miscarriage be prevented?
A miscarriage cannot be prevented, but there are some things you can do to increase your chance of a healthy and successful pregnancy.

Take a prenatal vitamin.
Exercise regularly
Avoid smoking and using alcohol or recreational drugs.
Attend regular prenatal appointments.
Eat a healthy diet.

Talk to your doctor if you’ve had a miscarriage in the past, or if you have any concerns.
For more information on miscarriages, click here.
To learn how to cope with miscarriage, click here.
To listen to the Baby Your Baby Podcast on infertility, click here.
The Baby Your Baby program provides many resources for all pregnant women and new moms in Utah. There is also expert advice from the Utah Department of Health and Intermountain Healthcare that air each week on KUTV 2News.