Common Misconceptions About Miscarriage Explained
Uncover and understand the common myths about miscarriage, including causes, prevention, and emotional impact. Get evidence-based facts to support awareness and compassionate care.
Common Misconceptions About Miscarriage Explained
Miscarriage is a deeply emotional and often misunderstood experience. Many women and their families go through this painful event, but due to widespread myths and misconceptions, they may feel isolated, guilty, or confused. If you or someone you know has experienced a miscarriage, it’s important to separate fact from fiction to heal emotionally and physically.
In this article, we’ll debunk some of the most common misconceptions about miscarriage and provide accurate, compassionate information to help you navigate this difficult time.
1. Myth: Miscarriages Are Rare
Fact: Miscarriages are more common than most people realise.
About 10-20% of known pregnancies end in miscarriage, and the actual number may be higher since some occur before a woman even realises she’s pregnant. Most miscarriages happen in the first trimester (before 12 weeks), often due to chromosomal abnormalities that prevent the baby from developing normally.
Why this matters:
- Knowing that miscarriages are common can help reduce feelings of isolation.
- It’s not your fault—most happen due to factors beyond anyone’s control.
2. Myth: Stress or Exercise Causes Miscarriage
Fact: Everyday stress and moderate exercise do NOT cause miscarriage.
Many women worry that stress, arguments, or physical activity led to their miscarriage. However, unless extreme (like severe trauma or excessive physical strain), these factors are not responsible.
What actually causes miscarriage?
- Chromosomal abnormalities (most common reason).
- Hormonal imbalances (like low progesterone).
- Uterine or cervical issues (such as fibroids or an incompetent cervix).
- Chronic conditions (like uncontrolled diabetes or thyroid disorders).
What you can do:
- Stay active with doctor-approved exercises.
- Practice relaxation techniques (yoga, meditation) for emotional well-being.
3. Myth: A Previous Miscarriage Means You’ll Have Another
Fact: Most women who miscarry go on to have healthy pregnancies.
While recurrent miscarriages (3 or more) require medical evaluation, one miscarriage does not mean you’ll have another. About 85% of women who miscarry once later have a successful pregnancy.
When to seek help:
- If you’ve had two or more miscarriages, consult a doctor to check for underlying causes.
- Tests may include hormonal, genetic, or uterine evaluations.
Consult Top Specialists
4. Myth: You Did Something Wrong to Cause It
Fact: Miscarriage is NOT your fault.
Many women blame themselves—thinking they ate the wrong food, lifted something heavy, or didn’t rest enough. The truth is, most miscarriages happen because of random genetic errors, not because of anything the mother did or didn’t do.
How to cope:
- Be kind to yourself—guilt is common but misplaced.
- Seek support from loved ones or a counsellor.
5. Myth: You Can’t Get Pregnant Again After a Miscarriage
Fact: Fertility often returns quickly after a miscarriage.
Many women ovulate within 2-4 weeks after a miscarriage and can conceive again if they’re ready. Unless there’s an underlying condition, a single miscarriage does not affect future fertility.
When to try again:
- Physically, you may be ready after one normal menstrual cycle.
- Emotionally, take the time you need—everyone heals differently.
6. Myth: Bleeding Always Means a Miscarriage
Fact: Light spotting is common in early pregnancy and doesn’t always mean miscarriage.
While heavy bleeding with cramps can be a sign of miscarriage, some women experience spotting and still have healthy pregnancies. Always check with your doctor if you notice bleeding.
Other causes of bleeding:
- Implantation bleeding.
- Cervical irritation (after intercourse or an exam).
- Subchorionic hematoma (a harmless blood clot near the placenta).
7. Myth: You Should Wait a Long Time Before Trying Again
Fact: Unless your doctor advises otherwise, you can try when you feel ready.
Earlier beliefs suggested waiting 6 months, but research shows that conceiving within 3 months does not increase miscarriage risks.
Key considerations:
- Ensure you’ve recovered emotionally.
- Follow up with your doctor if you have concerns.
8. Myth: Only Older Women Have Miscarriages
Fact: While age increases risk, miscarriage can happen at any age.
- Women under 30 have a 10-15% miscarriage risk.
- Women 35-39 have a 20-25% risk.
- Women 40+ have a 50% or higher risk.
Why this happens:
Egg quality declines with age, increasing chromosomal abnormality risks.
9. Myth: There’s Nothing You Can Do to Prevent a Miscarriage
Fact: While not all miscarriages are preventable, some healthy habits help.
- Ways to support a healthy pregnancy:
- Take prenatal vitamins (especially folic acid) before conception.
- Avoid smoking, alcohol, and excessive caffeine.
- Manage chronic conditions (diabetes, thyroid issues).
- Maintain a healthy weight and balanced diet.
10. Myth: You Should Suffer in Silence
Fact: Talking about miscarriage helps in healing.
Many women feel alone, but 1 in 4 pregnancies ends in loss. Sharing your feelings with trusted friends, family, or support groups can ease grief.
Where to find support:
- Online communities (like Miscarriage Association).
- Counselling or therapy.
- Talking openly with your partner.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience:
- Heavy bleeding with severe cramps.
- Fever or signs of infection.
- Multiple miscarriages (2 or more).
Consider booking a consultation with an expert on Apollo 24|7 for personalised care and guidance.
Conclusion
Miscarriage is a deeply painful experience, but understanding the facts can be a step toward healing both emotionally and physically. It's important to remember that it’s not your fault—miscarriage is often beyond anyone’s control. You are not alone; many people go through this loss and find support in others who understand. A miscarriage does not mean the end of your hopes for the future—many go on to have healthy pregnancies. If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider or counsellor. Healing takes time, and it’s okay to grieve in your own way and at your own pace.
Consult Top Specialists
Consult Top Specialists
Dr. Sandhya Chandel
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
16 Years • MBBS, MD (Int. Med.), IDCCM
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(100+ Patients)
Dr. Ashita Kuruvilla
General Practitioner
6 Years • MBBS
Kolkata
KVC CLINIC, Kolkata
Dr Aakash Andgi
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
9 Years • MBBS MD
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Anand Ravi
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr Syed Mateen Pasha
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
