Stacy-Ann Gooden of PIX11 News spoke with Dr. Worth regarding how Meghan Markle’s grief over miscarriage is shared by many.
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Dr. Jaqueline Worth is an OB-GYN and co-author of The New Rules of Pregnancy. She says it happens more often than you think.
According to MayoClinic, About 10 to 20% of known pregnancies end in miscarriage. But the actual number is likely higher because many of them occur so early in pregnancy.
“Most of the time a miscarriage happens because the chromosomes in that particular pregnancy did not form correctly, and did not lead to a pregnancy that can turn into a healthy baby,” Dr. Worth tells PIX11 News.
Symptoms often include bleeding or spotting. Sometimes a change in the sense of being pregnant may occur. Breast tenderness may decrease, and the expectant mother could become nauseous.
While the reason for Markle’s miscarriage is unknown, at 39, Dr. Worth says age could have played a role. Other risks for miscarriages include,
- Past miscarriages. Women who have had two or more consecutive miscarriages are at higher risk.
- Underlying conditions. Those who suffer from illnesses like diabetes are more likely to see their unborn baby reach full term.
- Uterine or cervical problems. Certain uterine abnormalities or weak cervical tissues (incompetent cervix) might increase the risk of miscarriage.
While there is no concrete way of preventing a miscarriage, Dr. Worth urges women to get a full check-up from a OB-GYN to evaluate any correctable conditions that can increase your chances of a healthy pregnancy.
