Understanding Miscarriage: Possible Causes
Understanding Miscarriage: Possible Causes
Miscarriage is common, but finding its cause may not be easy. If a cause can be found, it’s likely to be a problem with the baby or the uterus. Other factors cause miscarriage, but they are less common.
Problems with the baby
Either of these problems with the baby can cause a miscarriage:
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A problem with the baby’s chromosomes
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Birth defects
Problems with the uterus or cervix
Any of these problems with the uterus or cervix can cause a miscarriage:
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The uterus may be divided (have a septum). Or it may have growths such as fibroids or adhesions.
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The lining of the uterus may be too thin for the fertilized egg to grow in.
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The cervix may be too weak to support the weight of a growing baby.
Other factors
Any of these problems can cause a miscarriage:
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A serious illness, such as uncontrolled diabetes mellitus.
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A bad injury, such as from a car accident.
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Contact with toxins or radiation.
What does not cause miscarriage
A lot of myths and “old wives’ tales” try to explain the cause of miscarriage. But they aren't true. None of these cause miscarriage:
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Updated:  
January 20, 2020
Sources:  
Spontaneous abortion: Risk factors, etiology, clinical manifestations, and diagnostic evaluation. UpToDate
Reviewed By:  
Irina Burd MD PhD,Donna Freeborn PhD CNM FNP,Heather Trevino