इस ब्लॉग को हिन्दी मे पढ़ने के लिए यहाँ क्लिक करे

Introduction

Missed Abortion is a devastating experiences for expectant parents that often goes unnoticed until later stages. In this blog post, we will delve into the topic of “Missed Abortion” and shed light on its causes, symptoms, and management. 

What is Missed Abortion?

Missed abortion, also known as a “silent miscarriage” or “delayed miscarriage,” refers to a situation where a fetus dies in the womb or uterus, but the body does not expel it immediately. The term “missed” implies that the loss of the pregnancy goes unnoticed for a prolonged period and is diagnosed on Sonography Report. Unlike other types of miscarriages, where the symptoms of pregnancy loss are evident, missed abortion can be particularly challenging because the body may not show any signs of a miscarriage.

Causes of Missed Abortion

Several factors can contribute to missed abortion. It’s essential to understand these causes to comprehend the risk factors and take appropriate precautions during pregnancy. Some of the common causes include:

1. Chromosomal Abnormalities

Chromosomal disorders in pregnancy can cause abortion in about 50% of cases. (Source: National Library of Medicine) During pregnancy, if an error occurs in the division of chromosomes, it can result in a chromosomal disorder. If understood in simple language, if there is some deficiency in the fetus at the time of fetus formation, then such a fetus does not develop naturally and abortion occurs. In some cases, if such a fetus develops and a child is born, then the child may show symptoms of chromosomal disorders such as Downs Syndrome. The mental and physical development of such children does not occur normally. Such children need special attention.

 2. Hormonal Imbalances

Hormones play a vital role in maintaining a healthy pregnancy. An imbalance in hormones, especially those responsible for supporting the pregnancy, can interfere with the fetus’s growth and development, leading to a missed abortion.

 3. Maternal Age

The risk of miscarriage is related to the age of the mother. The older the pregnant mother, the greater is the risk of miscarriage, which also includes missed abortion. Because with the increasing age of women, the possibility of chromosomal abnormalities in the womb increases. Women over the age of 35 have a higher risk of miscarriage than younger women. The risk of abortion at the age of 35 is approximately 20 percent. At age 40, the risk is about 40 percent. And by the age of 45, it increases to about 80 percent.

 4. Uterine Abnormalities

Anomalies in the shape or structure of the Uterus ( the organ in the lower body of a woman which carries a baby during pregnancy) can make it challenging for a fetus to grow and thrive, resulting in a missed abortion. Conditions like uterine fibroids or a septate uterus can interfere with successful implantation and pregnancy.

 5. Chronic Health Conditions

Certain chronic health conditions, such as Diabetes, Hypertension and Thyroid disorders,  Autoimmune or Endocrine disorders can increase the risk of miscarriage, including missed abortion. Proper management of these conditions before and during pregnancy is crucial to reduce the risk.

6. Smoking and Alcohol

If you smoke a lot or drink alcohol quite frequently, you may be more susceptible to missed abortion.

Missed Abortion Symptoms

Detecting missed abortion can be difficult, as there may be no apparent signs or symptoms. However, some women may experience subside of  pregnancy symptoms. A decrease in pregnancy-related symptoms, such as morning sickness ( nausea, vomiting ) and breast tenderness, could indicate a problem.

 Diagnosis

Diagnosing missed abortion typically involves a combination of methods, including:

 1. Ultrasound

Ultrasound imaging is a crucial tool for diagnosing missed abortion. An ultrasound can confirm the absence of a fetal heartbeat and the cessation of fetal growth, indicating a missed abortion.

 2. Blood Tests

Blood tests to measure hormone levels, such as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), can help determine if the pregnancy is progressing as expected or if a missed abortion has occurred.

 Missed Abortion Treatment

When faced with a missed abortion, expectant parents have several management options, depending on the gestational age and individual circumstances:

 1. Expectant Management

In this method, we wait for the abortion to take place naturally and for the fetus to come out. The body eventually expels the fetus naturally. This process may take several weeks. If this is not successful, abortion may require medication or surgery.

 2. Medical Management

Medical intervention involves using medications, such as Misoprostol, to induce the expulsion of the fetus and pregnancy tissues. This method may be preferred if expectant management takes too long or poses risks to the woman’s health. In most of the cases it usually takes about 6-8 hours for the abortion to occur after taking the tablets.

 3. Surgical Management

Surgical procedures, such as dilation and evacuation (D&E), may be performed to remove the contents of the uterus. D and E is a type of day care surgery in which the damaged fetus is taken out of the uterus with a Suction Machine or MVA Syringe, thereby completing the abortion.

 4. Emotional Support

Coping with a missed abortion can be emotionally distressing for both the woman and her partner. Seeking emotional support from family, friends, or support groups can be beneficial during this challenging time. It’s essential to acknowledge and express grief and seek professional counseling if needed.

 Conclusion

Understanding missed abortion is essential for expectant parents and those planning to conceive. While it is a distressing experience, knowledge of its causes, symptoms, and management options can help individuals make informed decisions and seek timely medical attention. If anyone experiences symptoms of a missed abortion or has concerns about their pregnancy, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider promptly for appropriate evaluation and support.

 FAQs