What are the causes of early pregnancy loss?

Jan 15, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
In general, possible causes of early pregnancy loss may include maternal age, lifestyle factors, embryonic chromosomal abnormalities, hyperthyroidism, and abnormal maternal immune function. Symptomatic management may involve general treatment and medication. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and receive appropriate treatment under the guidance of a physician.

Generally, possible causes of early pregnancy loss may include age-related factors, lifestyle habits, embryonic chromosomal abnormalities, hyperthyroidism, and maternal immune dysfunction. Symptomatic management through general treatment and medication may be required. If experiencing any discomfort, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention and receive appropriate treatment under a physician's guidance. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Age-related factors

As women age, the quality and quantity of their eggs gradually decline, increasing the risk of chromosomal abnormalities, which may lead to abnormal embryonic development and ultimately result in pregnancy loss. It is recommended that older pregnant women undergo more comprehensive preconception examinations, including genetic counseling and chromosome analysis, to identify risks promptly and take appropriate measures.

2. Lifestyle

Unhealthy habits such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and excessive work can lead to an unstable internal environment in the mother's body, affecting nutrient supply and the growth environment of the embryo, thereby increasing the risk of pregnancy loss. Pregnant women may experience nonspecific symptoms such as fatigue and anxiety. It is recommended to maintain a healthy lifestyle, manage work and rest appropriately, and reduce stress levels.

3. Embryonic chromosomal abnormalities

Embryonic chromosomal abnormalities may include numerical and structural abnormalities, such as triploidy and polyploidy. These abnormalities prevent the embryo from developing normally, leading to pregnancy loss. Often there may be no obvious symptoms, although vaginal bleeding or disappearance of early pregnancy symptoms may occur. Once diagnosed, miscarriage management is usually required, and genetic counseling and testing are recommended before planning the next pregnancy.

4. Hyperthyroidism

Thyroid hormones play an important role in embryonic development. Excess thyroid hormone can interfere with normal embryonic development, leading to pregnancy loss. Symptoms such as palpitations, excessive sweating, weight loss, cold intolerance, or fatigue may also occur. It is recommended to take medications such as methimazole tablets, propylthiouracil tablets, or carbimazole tablets under medical supervision and consider pregnancy only after the condition has stabilized.

5. Maternal immune dysfunction

Abnormal immune function can cause the mother's body to produce abnormal antibodies, which may attack the embryo, resulting in abnormal development or developmental arrest of the embryo. Symptoms such as joint pain, rash, and reduced platelet count may be present. It is recommended to take medications such as prednisone acetate tablets, warfarin sodium tablets, or spleen aminopeptide oral solution under medical supervision and closely monitor embryonic development.

Pregnant women are advised to attend regular prenatal checkups and closely monitor hormone levels and embryonic development to identify and address any issues promptly.