Week late period pregnancy symptoms. Pregnancy Fatigue: Causes, Symptoms, and Management Strategies
When does pregnancy fatigue typically start. How can expectant mothers cope with pregnancy-related exhaustion. What are the main causes of fatigue during different trimesters. Why do pregnant women experience increased tiredness. How can diet and exercise impact energy levels during pregnancy.
Understanding Pregnancy Fatigue: A Common yet Challenging Symptom
Pregnancy brings about numerous changes in a woman’s body, and fatigue is one of the most common and often overlooked symptoms. While some expectant mothers may experience minimal tiredness, others might find themselves battling extreme exhaustion, particularly during the early stages of pregnancy.
Recognizing the Signs of Pregnancy Fatigue
Pregnancy fatigue can manifest in various ways, including:
- Difficulty getting out of bed in the morning
- Struggling to complete daily tasks
- Trouble concentrating
- Persistent tiredness throughout the day
- Increased irritability
- Feelings of weakness
Is fatigue an early sign of pregnancy? Indeed, it can be. Some women may experience fatigue as soon as one week after conception, making it one of the earliest indicators of pregnancy, even before a test can confirm it. However, it’s most common for fatigue to set in during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.
The Causes of Fatigue Throughout Pregnancy
The factors contributing to pregnancy fatigue vary depending on the trimester. Understanding these causes can help expectant mothers better manage their energy levels and overall well-being.
First Trimester Fatigue: Hormonal and Metabolic Changes
During the first trimester, two primary factors contribute to fatigue:
- Hormonal changes: A significant increase in progesterone levels has been directly linked to fatigue. The emotional fluctuations accompanying these hormonal shifts can also be exhausting.
- Metabolic changes: The body expends considerable energy creating the placenta, producing extra blood, and supporting fetal development, leading to increased fatigue.
Second Trimester: A Potential Energy Boost
Many women experience a surge in energy during the second trimester. This is often attributed to the body’s adaptation to new hormone levels and the fact that the baby is not yet large enough to cause significant physical strain. However, some women may still experience fatigue, particularly if their sleep is disrupted by pregnancy symptoms such as frequent urination or leg cramps.
Third Trimester: The Return of Fatigue
Fatigue often returns in the third trimester due to several factors:
- Increased physical strain from carrying extra weight
- Difficulty finding comfortable sleeping positions
- More frequent nighttime bathroom visits due to pressure on the bladder
- Continued experience of other pregnancy symptoms
Effective Strategies to Combat Pregnancy Fatigue
While fatigue is a common and often unavoidable aspect of pregnancy, there are several strategies expectant mothers can employ to boost their energy levels and manage this symptom effectively.
Optimizing Nutrition for Energy
A well-balanced diet plays a crucial role in maintaining energy levels during pregnancy. Key nutritional considerations include:
- Ensuring adequate iron intake to support red blood cell production and prevent anemia-related fatigue
- Consuming protein-rich foods for sustained energy
- Opting for smaller, more frequent meals to maintain stable blood sugar levels
- Staying well-hydrated to support overall bodily functions
Can certain foods help combat pregnancy fatigue? Yes, iron-rich foods such as lean meats, leafy greens, and fortified cereals can help prevent anemia and boost energy levels. Additionally, complex carbohydrates and proteins provide sustained energy throughout the day.
The Role of Exercise in Pregnancy Energy Levels
Regular physical activity can significantly impact energy levels during pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week for pregnant women. This can be broken down into 30-minute sessions of pregnancy-safe exercises daily.
Exercise benefits pregnant women by:
- Improving blood circulation and oxygen delivery throughout the body
- Boosting overall energy levels
- Helping manage other pregnancy symptoms such as back pain and constipation
- Promoting better sleep quality
Are there specific exercises that are particularly beneficial during pregnancy? Low-impact activities such as swimming, prenatal yoga, and walking are excellent choices for maintaining fitness and energy levels without putting undue stress on the body.
The Importance of Rest and Sleep During Pregnancy
While it’s essential to stay active and maintain a healthy diet, adequate rest is equally crucial for managing pregnancy fatigue. Expectant mothers should prioritize rest by:
- Taking breaks throughout the day when needed
- Napping when fatigue sets in
- Aiming for earlier bedtimes
- Creating a comfortable sleep environment
- Limiting fluid intake before bedtime to reduce nighttime bathroom visits
How much sleep do pregnant women need? While individual needs may vary, most pregnant women benefit from 7-9 hours of sleep per night, with additional rest periods during the day if needed.
Managing Emotional and Mental Fatigue During Pregnancy
Pregnancy fatigue isn’t just physical; it can also take a toll on emotional and mental well-being. Expectant mothers may experience mood swings, anxiety, or feelings of overwhelm, all of which can contribute to fatigue.
Strategies for Emotional Well-being
- Practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation or deep breathing exercises
- Engage in activities that bring joy and relaxation
- Seek support from partners, family, friends, or support groups
- Consider prenatal counseling if emotional struggles persist
Can prenatal depression contribute to fatigue? Yes, prenatal depression can exacerbate feelings of fatigue. If you’re experiencing persistent low mood or excessive worry, it’s important to discuss these symptoms with your healthcare provider.
When to Seek Medical Advice for Pregnancy Fatigue
While fatigue is a normal part of pregnancy, there are instances when it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider. These situations include:
- Extreme fatigue that interferes with daily activities
- Sudden onset of severe fatigue, especially if accompanied by other symptoms
- Fatigue accompanied by dizziness, shortness of breath, or rapid heartbeat
- Persistent fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest and lifestyle adjustments
Should pregnant women be concerned about fatigue lasting throughout the entire pregnancy? While some level of fatigue is normal, persistent severe fatigue could indicate an underlying issue such as anemia or thyroid problems. It’s always best to discuss ongoing concerns with a healthcare provider.
Adapting Work and Daily Life to Pregnancy Fatigue
Managing pregnancy fatigue often requires adjustments to daily routines and work life. Here are some strategies to help expectant mothers navigate this challenging aspect of pregnancy:
Workplace Accommodations
- Discuss flexible working hours or the possibility of working from home
- Take short breaks throughout the day to rest or stretch
- Ensure your workspace is ergonomically set up to minimize physical strain
- Consider disclosing your pregnancy to your employer if you haven’t already, as they may be able to offer additional support
Home Life Adjustments
- Prioritize tasks and focus on essential activities
- Delegate household chores when possible
- Prepare meals in advance or opt for simple, nutritious options
- Create a relaxing bedtime routine to improve sleep quality
How can partners support pregnant women experiencing fatigue? Partners can help by taking on additional household responsibilities, encouraging rest periods, and being understanding of the physical and emotional challenges of pregnancy.
The Impact of Pregnancy Fatigue on Postpartum Recovery
While the focus is often on managing fatigue during pregnancy, it’s important to consider how prenatal fatigue might affect postpartum recovery. Chronic fatigue during pregnancy can potentially lead to:
- Increased risk of postpartum depression
- Slower physical recovery after childbirth
- Challenges with breastfeeding and infant care
- Difficulty adjusting to the demands of new parenthood
Can managing pregnancy fatigue improve postpartum outcomes? Yes, effectively managing fatigue during pregnancy through proper nutrition, exercise, and rest can contribute to a smoother postpartum recovery and transition to parenthood.
Preparing for Postpartum Fatigue
To better prepare for the challenges of postpartum fatigue, expectant mothers can:
- Establish a support network before the baby arrives
- Learn about postpartum recovery and what to expect
- Discuss strategies for shared nighttime responsibilities with partners
- Consider hiring postpartum support, such as a doula or night nurse, if feasible
Pregnancy fatigue is a complex and multifaceted aspect of the maternal experience. By understanding its causes, recognizing its symptoms, and implementing effective management strategies, expectant mothers can navigate this challenging symptom more comfortably. Remember that every pregnancy is unique, and it’s essential to listen to your body and consult with healthcare providers for personalized advice and support throughout this transformative journey.
What to expect from pregnancy fatigue
Pregnancy is all about changes, and some are more dramatic than others. Along with all the physical changes happening to your body, you may also be experiencing symptoms like mood swings, swelling, nausea or morning sickness, to name a few. So, it can be easy to overlook something as straightforward as fatigue.
But as you may be finding out, fatigue can be quite a challenge, too. Below, we cover everything you can expect from this common pregnancy symptom, its causes, and what you can do to manage it.
What does pregnancy fatigue feel like?
Fatigue is totally normal during pregnancy, but people’s experiences with it can vary widely. It may be that you don’t experience much fatigue at all, or it may be that you feel extreme tiredness in early pregnancy that drops off later on. No matter how it affects you, fatigue can generally be characterized by:
- Difficulty getting up in the morning
- Daily tasks becoming harder to complete
- Difficulty focusing
- Constant tiredness throughout the day
- Irritability
- Feeling weak
When does pregnancy fatigue start?
Pregnancy fatigue can start as soon as one week after conception, which means it may be an early sign of pregnancy before a test can tell you for sure. It’s also common to start feeling tired any time during the first 12 weeks.
What causes fatigue during pregnancy?
There are various factors that can cause fatigue, but they differ from trimester to trimester.
First trimester fatigue
The overall cause of fatigue in early pregnancy is simple – your body is preparing for the months ahead. But there are a couple parts of this preparation that can really contribute to feelings of fatigue:
- Hormone changes: There are a lot of hormone changes that happen in early pregnancy. One of them, a big jump in progesterone levels, has been directly linked to fatigue. The emotional ups and downs that come with hormone changes can be tiring, too.
- Metabolic changes: Creation takes energy. And in addition to a fetus, your body is making a placenta and extra blood. All these things create a greater demand for energy and may be partly why you feel the urge to sleep more.
Second trimester fatigue
In the second trimester, people typically find that they have more energy – you may be used to the new hormone levels in your body, and your baby isn’t very big yet. But it’s still possible to feel fatigued in the second trimester, especially if your sleep gets interrupted by pregnancy symptoms like frequent urination and leg cramps.
Third trimester fatigue
When fatigue happens in the third trimester, it’s generally because the baby’s gotten bigger. Carrying around that extra weight can be tiring on its own, but it also makes other things harder, including sleeping comfortably. Plus, as the baby settles into the pelvis, it puts more pressure on the bladder, so nighttime trips to the bathroom may become even more common. And all of that is in addition to any other pregnancy symptoms you’re experiencing.
Tips to overcome pregnancy fatigue and get more energy
When it comes to managing fatigue, the best thing you can do is take steps to increase your energy levels. This means:
Stay on top of your nutrition
A solid pregnancy diet can be a great way to keep your energy up. In particular, focus on getting enough iron, which supports red blood cell production and prevents any additional tiredness from anemia (a condition which results from not having enough red blood cells to carry the amount of oxygen your body needs). Foods that are high in protein are also good choices, as protein is a longer-lasting source of energy compared to carbohydrates.
You may benefit from eating smaller meals throughout the day. This can help keep your blood sugar and energy levels consistent. It’s also important to drink plenty of water, as water helps your body function properly.
Exercise
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that you get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week while you’re pregnant. That may sound like a lot, but if you break it down into 30 minutes of pregnancy-safe exercises per day, it adds up quickly.
Exercise improves blood circulation, which helps bring oxygen to every part of your body. This can give a boost to overall energy levels. Plus, exercise helps manage other pregnancy symptoms like back pain and constipation.
Rest
Even if you’re doing everything you can to boost your energy levels, you still have to listen to your body. And when your body is fatigued, rest is the answer. Take breaks throughout the day, nap when you need to and sleep as much as possible. It may help to go to bed earlier, and avoiding fluids for a few hours before going to bed can help cut down on bathroom visits at night.
When should I see my doctor or midwife about fatigue during pregnancy?
Fatigue is very common and normal during pregnancy. Still, don’t hesitate to talk to your care provider at any point along your prenatal appointment timeline if you have questions or concerns about your level of tiredness.
But keep in mind, there are times when fatigue may be a symptom of a pregnancy complication like anemia, depression or gestational diabetes. Call your care provider if you experience sudden fatigue, fatigue that completely stops you from doing your daily tasks or if you have fatigue with any of the following:
- Fever
- Pain in the chest, abdomen or head
- Dizziness
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling in your hands, ankles or feet
- Vision changes
Get the care you need
Whether your pregnancy is making you tired, nauseous or anything else, a prenatal appointment can help. In addition to making sure you and your little one are safe and healthy, your care provider can give you tips and recommendations for every part of your pregnancy.
What you can expect in your second trimester of pregnancy
You’ve just cleared a major hurdle and it’s time to celebrate – you’re into your second trimester! The second trimester generally lasts from week 14 to week 27 of pregnancy. (If you haven’t already shared your baby news with everyone, now might be the time to execute that baby announcement you’ve been eyeing on Pinterest.)
It’s during your second trimester that your growing baby bump will begin to pop out for the world to see. Your body will experience this and many more changes in your second trimester. Here’s a rundown of some symptoms and other milestones you can expect.
Second trimester symptoms
As you enter the next 13 weeks, you may notice these changes:
Decreased morning sickness
If you experienced morning sickness in your first trimester, then you’re in luck – you’re probably going to experience less nausea in the second trimester. It’s not likely that morning sickness will come back in the second trimester, which means your appetite – and your energy – may return. But keep in mind that nausea could last for a few weeks into the second trimester, so you may need to keep drinking that ginger tea for just a bit longer.
Difficulty eating large meals
Your growing uterus might make it harder to eat larger meals. Instead, try to nibble on smaller amounts of food throughout the day. If you experienced morning sickness, you may already be used to this. Remember, you should be eating around 200 to 300 extra calories each day. You’ll feel better when you make healthy food choices, like lean proteins and complex carbohydrates. Fat takes more time to digest so it sits in your stomach longer, which can lead to constipation.
Increased energy
You’ll most likely feel less fatigued from pregnancy throughout the day, giving you more energy to do things you enjoy, like starting a baby registry. Make sure you get out and move, too. We recommend 30 minutes of activity a day such as walking, joining an exercise class, biking or swimming. Just stay away from activities that have a higher risk of injury (skiing – water or downhill, roller coasters, horseback riding, etc.). Be careful not to bump, injure or fall on your belly.
Some women still experience fatigue in their second trimester, so don’t get discouraged if it happens to you.
Dull headaches
Occasional headaches in the second trimester of pregnancy are normal but typically less frequent. They happen because your blood vessels have opened to get as much blood flow to the uterus as possible. They’re more common in the first trimester due to this increase in blood volume and the surge of hormones. By 12 to 15 weeks, your body will get used to the increased blood flow, and headaches usually decrease.
Shortness of breath
With the heart working harder and your uterus starting to expand, shortness of breath may become a little more noticeable.
Round ligament pain
As your uterus grows, the ligaments in your midsection are getting stretched and pulled to support your uterus. This can cause discomfort on either side of your lower abdomen and can feel like light cramping, a stabbing pain or dull ache. Quick movements like turning from side-to-side in bed, standing, or laughing could cause the ligaments to stretch, triggering feelings of discomfort or pain. While minor pain is to be expected, if you experience extreme pain or bleeding, call your care team immediately.
Pelvic pain
Your ligaments stretch and loosen as your baby gets heavier, so the muscles supporting that weight have to work harder. You may start feeling more back, hip and pelvic discomfort or pain during the second trimester of pregnancy.
Emerging baby bump
By the 20-week mark, your uterus should be near your belly button. Depending on your body shape, you may start to see a prominent baby bump. If you haven’t started wearing pregnancy clothes already, now might be the time to start looking for new pieces of clothing. Or, you can try a trick for extending the waistband of your favorite pants: place a hair tie or rubber band around the button, loop it through the button hole on your pants and connect it back to the button.
Bleeding
Spotting or light bleeding in your second trimester is normal. But call your care provider if you’re bleeding enough to soak through more than one pad, or if your bleeding is paired with strong abdominal pain or passing pieces of tissue.
When will I feel my baby move for the first time?
Another joy that comes in the second trimester is finally feeling your baby move. It feels like flutters in your tummy, but these flutters can also be confused with gas bubbles. That’s why it may be tough for you to distinguish between your baby’s first kicks or the chicken salad sandwich you ate for lunch. You may be able to tell the difference by 20 to 22 weeks.
If you don’t feel your baby kick, don’t panic. Your placenta may be located at the front of your uterus. This creates a pillow between you and your baby. In a few more weeks, your baby will grow big enough so you can feel his or her movements through your placenta pillow.
What fetal development occurs in the second trimester?
In addition to starting to move, your baby undergoes a lot of changes during these weeks. Their fingers, toes and facial features develop and become more defined. Baby’s nervous system starts working, they start to store fat and in the latter half of the trimester, their eyes will open. By the time you reach the third trimester of your pregnancy, your baby will even respond to stimuli.
Other frequently asked questions
How should I sleep during the second trimester of pregnancy?
Until it becomes uncomfortable due to your baby bump, you can sleep on your stomach. Otherwise, you can start getting used to sleeping on either your left or right side.
Is it safe to have intercourse during the second trimester of pregnancy?
Totally, unless your care team has told you otherwise (and you can still ask if you want to be sure). Just listen to your body, do what’s comfortable, and stop if you feel pain.
How much weight will I gain during the second trimester?
If you were at a healthy weight pre-pregnancy, you might start to gain weight a little faster now than you did in your first trimester. Overall recommended weight gain depends on your starting weight and how much you gained in the first trimester.
Is it normal to pee a lot in the second trimester?
While you may have experienced frequent trips to the bathroom during first trimester, it’s common to get a break in the second trimester. Your body is now more adapted to the change in hormones, plus your growing uterus will rise in your abdomen and take off some pressure, so you won’t feel the need to pee as often.
In the third trimester, you’re more likely to feel pressure on your bladder and take more trips to the bathroom. However, it’s still normal to feel like you have to pee a lot during any time in your pregnancy. Talk with your doctor if you notice pain when you urinate, cloudy, foul-smelling or blood-tinged urine, or are experiencing severe incontinence.
Second trimester tests
Both your body and your baby are growing rapidly and changing fast. This means your provider will want to monitor the health of you and your baby even more. During your second trimester, there are some routine, as well as optional, tests including:
Ultrasound
You’ve probably heard your baby’s heartbeat during your regular appointments. But during your ultrasound, you’ll get the first actual look at your baby. This ultrasound is scheduled around 19 to 22 weeks. This anatomy scan takes a closer look at your baby’s brain, heart, facial features and bone structure to make sure your baby is developing normally. You can also use this ultrasound as an opportunity to find out if you are having a boy or a girl.
Gestational diabetes test
You’ll be scheduled for your gestational diabetes test around 24 to 28 weeks. There aren’t any symptoms associated with gestational diabetes, which is why taking this test is so important. During the test, you’ll drink a sugary juice and then we’ll monitor the glucose levels in your bloodstream. If your glucose levels are high, you’ll be asked to retake the test on another day. This second test will be longer and require you to fast beforehand.
Anemia screening
Your blood vessels are opening during your second trimester and, as a result, the amount of blood pumping through your veins is increasing. When this happens, your red blood cell count could decrease and you could become anemic. This is quite common during pregnancy and it means you’ll probably need to add more iron and vitamins to your diet.
Genetic testing
These are optional screening tests that can be started as early as 11 weeks into your pregnancy. These tests include a blood draw to evaluate pregnancy hormones levels and may include an ultrasound. They can help determine if your baby has genetic abnormalities like Down syndrome or spina bifida.
Genetic tests may be recommended during your pregnancy if you are over age 35 or have other risk factors. It’s best to talk with your provider to find out more information and discuss the specific types of tests available. Then you can decide if there are any that are right for you.
Routine tests will likely be covered under your insurance benefits. In some instances, genetic screenings may not be covered. When in doubt, call your insurance provider to learn more about your specific benefits.
One down, two to go
The second trimester is an exciting part of your pregnancy. You often feel better and have more energy, (which is super helpful as you begin to prepare the nursery or make a birth plan!). And of course, as your pregnancy progresses, don’t hesitate to ask your provider questions about your symptoms or what to expect as you approach your due date.
Miscarriage – terms, causes, symptoms, signs, diagnostics (tests), treatment
Missed pregnancy is a pathological condition in which the dead fetus continues to remain in the uterus. Pathology is a fairly common occurrence.
As a woman ages, the risk of intrauterine death of the embryo increases. Fading can occur at any stage of pregnancy. Most often this happens before 12 weeks.
Causes of pregnancy failure
The most significant are:
- hormonal imbalance;
- genetic pathology;
- infectious diseases;
- woman’s age;
- ECO;
- autoimmune pathology;
- immunity disorders;
- artificial abortions;
- the presence of bad habits;
- unfavorable environment.
Hormonal disorders
Insufficient production of progesterone negatively affects the course of pregnancy, provoking the death of the fetus. An excess amount of androgens, diseases of the adrenal glands and the thyroid gland can cause pregnancy to fade not only in the early stages, but also in the later ones.
Genetic causes
Inheritance of the parental abnormal gene, as well as chromosomal rearrangements, lead to the development of a karyotype of the organism incompatible with life. Thus, nature itself takes care of the elimination of defective embryos.
Infectious diseases
Both common and sexually transmitted infections in the early stages can provoke fetal death, and in the later stages they are one of the causes of the development of anomalies. In this regard, a woman, when registering for pregnancy and during the entire period, takes tests several times for the presence of infections in the body.
Woman’s age
With age, the likelihood of developing pathology increases. Women who decide to have a baby for the first time after 35 are at the greatest risk.
ECO
In some cases, pregnancy fades after in vitro fertilization. Usually the cause of the pathology is related to why the woman had to resort to IVF.
Autoimmune pathology
The development of pathology can be caused by thrombosis as a result of the antiphospholipid syndrome. Insufficient supply of oxygen and nutrients to the fetus contributes to its death.
Immune system disorders
For some reason, the mother’s body begins to perceive the fetus as a foreign organism and kills it.
Presence of diseases
If a woman has anatomical anomalies in the structure of the organs responsible for reproduction, as well as a history of diseases of the heart and blood vessels, the circulatory system, diabetes mellitus, then the risk of pathology increases. Hormonal disruptions, as well as a violation of the cycle of menstruation, can provoke the development of a missed pregnancy.
Induced abortion
The presence of numerous abortions leads to the inferiority of the endometrium in the second phase of menstruation. As a result, implantation of a fertilized egg into the uterus cannot take place. Even if the introduction into the endometrium goes well, its inferiority will negatively affect the development of the embryo. He will not be able to receive adequate nutrition and oxygen.
Presence of bad habits
Often addiction to smoking, alcoholic beverages, drugs causes not only the deformity of the fetus, but also its death.
Adverse environment
Pathology can develop with insufficient, malnourished pregnant women, as a result of work in hazardous industries, as well as with changing climatic conditions.
Symptoms of miscarriage
In the first trimester, a woman should be alerted by the presence of the following manifestations:
- abrupt cessation of toxicosis: odor and taste perversions, drowsiness, nausea and vomiting;
- disappearance of breast engorgement;
- decrease in hCG, the result of a pregnancy test becomes negative or weakly positive;
- decrease in basal temperature;
- the appearance of pain in the lower abdomen and lower back;
- the presence of scanty dark bloody discharge from the genitals.
In the later stages, signs of pregnancy fading can be:
- absence of fetal movements;
- pain in the lower abdomen of a pulling nature;
- the appearance of bleeding.
Missed pregnancy diagnosis
Confirmation of a failed miscarriage is based on the following facts:
- During a gynecological examination. The gestational age does not correspond to the size of the uterus. There is no fetal heartbeat.
- According to the results of the data obtained from the ultrasound of the fetus, and changes in the blood test for hCG. In the early stages, a discrepancy in the size of the embryo is revealed. There is no fetal heartbeat, and anembryonia (absence of an embryo in the presence of fetal membranes) can also be diagnosed. The hCG level does not change or decreases.
In the later stages, cardiotocography is additionally required to confirm the absence of the child’s heartbeat.
The likelihood of negative consequences of a miscarriage is minimal. The risk of complications associated with pathology increases if a similar episode has already taken place in the anamnesis. After a previous missed pregnancy, there are no obstacles to re-pregnancy and the birth of a healthy baby.
The following effects may occur:
- Sepsis. With a long stay of a dead fetus in the uterus, followed by decomposition, inflammation and infection of the body may develop. Toxic substances formed during the decay of tissues contribute to the poisoning of the woman’s body. This can lead to blood poisoning.
- DIC, which is characterized by severe, intractable bleeding.
- Mummification of the fetus. This phenomenon is more typical for multiple pregnancy. Moreover, if there are two fruits, then one of them may die and turn into a “mummy”.
- development of depression.
- Fetal petrification (lithopedion). After death, it undergoes calcification. Lithopedion is an extremely rare occurrence.
Treatment of miscarriage
What to do with a frozen pregnancy? If there are signs of a failed abortion, you should consult a doctor to confirm the diagnosis. In the absence of spontaneous miscarriage in the early stages after a missed pregnancy, a gynecological cleaning is performed. The procedure is necessary even with an abortion that has taken place for a period of 8 weeks or more, since fragments of the fetal egg may remain in the uterus.
Another method of treatment after miscarriage is medical aspiration. The method is more gentle, but less effective. A woman takes a special pill that provokes uterine contractions. As a result of the contraction, the dead fetus is removed.
There are two types of cleaning: surgical and vacuum.
Surgical use of a curette to crush the embryo and forceps to remove the fragments. The uterine cavity is scraped, which subsequently negatively affects its condition.
After a surgical abortion, inflammation is common and there is a risk of infertility. With this method of cleansing, it takes time to restore the body and conduct treatment after a frozen pregnancy.
The vacuum technique uses special equipment to carefully separate the fetal egg from the uterine wall. Vacuum aspiration practically does not give complications. The recovery period is minimal.
The author of the article:
Shklyar Aleksey Alekseevich
obstetrician-gynecologist, surgeon, KMN, head of the direction “Obstetrics and Gynecology”
work experience 10 years
reviews leave feedback
Clinic
9 0002
reviews 17 Shklyar Alexey Alekseevich
I turned to Aleksey Alekseevich Shklyar I want to express my deepest gratitude to the entire staff of the operating unit Aleksey Alekseevich Shklyar. You are all doctors with a capital letter. I never tire of thanking God for bringing me to you. I came to you on the recommendation of Sorvacheva M.V. We got in touch with the doctor by phone and appointed the day of the operation. For the first time, I was pleasantly surprised how Alexey Alekseevich told me everything in detail and reassured me. A couple of weeks later, I arrived at the clinic at 10.00 with a complete list of tests, and already at 11 I was lying on the operating table, to be honest, I didn’t even have time to get scared) Then the anesthetist magician came and I fell asleep sweetly. I woke up already in bed, nothing hurt, there were no side effects, just a normal morning awakening. I would never have believed that this was even possible, I am very grateful for a wonderful dream. Before that, I had more than one general anesthesia in state hospitals, and now I understand for sure that they apparently wanted to kill me there, but it didn’t work out. For the next two hours, until it was impossible to get up, wonderful nurses came to me asking how I felt and if I needed something, they put droppers, and I lay and did not believe that everything terrible was over)) 2 hours after the operation, I was already getting up and drank delicious broth and tea. The rest of the time before sleep, I walked around the ward, I didn’t feel any pain at all, a little weakness and nothing more. The next morning I was fed deliciously and discharged home. After being discharged, Aleksey Alekseevich is constantly in touch, he worries about my well-being more than even my relatives. I needed further treatment, he even helps me with this by calling the best doctors and clinics, supporting me. And now I know for sure that I am in the most reliable hands. Thank you very much again. Prosperity to your clinic and low bow to all your doctors. You are the best!!!
Lilia
15.05.2021 15:21:57
Clinic
Sukharevskaya metro station
Doctor
Alexey Shklyar
On May 7, 2021, I did a minor gynecological operation in SOD, and I would like to express my gratitude to the attending physician, to the head of the gynecological department Shklyar Aleksey Alekseevich, – for high professionalism, and exceptionally friendly attitude, understandable recommendations. The doctor communicates very correctly, clearly and with explanations.
Special thanks to the anesthetist Alexey Valeryevich Fomin, for the quality anesthesia (I was more afraid of anesthesia than the operation itself), but everything went well, I was “not present” at the operation, and the condition after anesthesia was normal, as after waking up in the morning, no “side effects” ‘ did not feel.
After the operation, nothing hurt after half an hour, and after an hour and a half, I went home.
The attitude in the hospital was the most friendly, including from the nurses and the administrator at the reception (unfortunately, I did not ask for names).
It’s been a week since the operation, and only the discharge summary # 140035314 reminds of it.
I’m very glad that I trusted the experience of the Polyclinic ru doctors.
Services
- Title
- Initial appointment, consultation with an obstetrician-gynecologist3950
- Reception, consultation of an obstetrician-gynecologist repeated2300
- Reception, consultation of the doctor of the head of the department of gynecology / Ph. D. primary4300
- Reception, consultation of the head of the department of gynecology / Ph.D. repeat3050
Health articles
All articlesAllergistGastroenterologistHematologistGynecologistDermatologistImmunologistInfectionistCardiologistCosmetologistENT doctor (otolaryngologist)MammologistNeurologistNephrologistOncologistOphthalmologistProctologistPsychotherapistPulmonologistRheumatologistTraumatologist-orthopedistTrichologistUrologistPhlebologistSurgeonEndocrinologist
Our doctors
Specialization of the doctorAllergistAndrologistAnesthetistPediatrician house callPaediatrician house callGastroenterologistHematologistGynecologistBreastfeedingDermatologistPediatric allergologistPediatric gastroenterologistPediatric gynecologistPediatric dermatologistPediatric infectious disease specialistPediatric cardiologistPediatric ENT specialistPediatric chiropractorPediatric massagePediatric neurologistPediatric neurologist phrologistPediatric oncologistPediatric osteopathPediatric ophthalmologistPediatric psychiatristPediatric traumatologistPediatric urologistPediatric surgeonPediatric endocrinologistPediatric departmentDietologistImmunologistInfectionistHeadache roomCardiologistCosmetologistENT doctor (otolaryngologist)MammologistManual therapistMassageNarcologistNeurologistNeurologistNephrologistOncologistOperational unitOsteopathOt department of pediatrics m. TherapistTraumatologist-orthopedistTrichologistUltrasound (ultrasound examination)UrologistPhysiotherapistPhlebologistSurgeonSurgical operations under the compulsory medical insurance policy of the Moscow RegionEndocrinologistAesthetic gynecologyClinics. Smolensk. Taganskaya. Street 1905 years. Red Gates. AvtozavodskayaPharmacy. Glades. Sukharevskaya. st. Academician Yangelam. Frunzenskaya Zelenograd
Kuznetsova Daria Vitalievna
obstetrician-gynecologist
reviews
Make an appointment
Clinic
m. Frunzenskaya
Rodina Tatyana Lvovna
obstetrician-gynecologist
reviews
Make an appointment
Clinic
m. Avtozavodskaya
Shaydullina Victoria Gennadievna
obstetrician-gynecologist
reviews
Make an appointment
Clinic
m. Sukharevskaya
Chobanyan Arine Araratovna
obstetrician-gynecologist
reviews
Make an appointment
Clinic
m. Polyanka
Belozerova Elena Mikhailovna
obstetrician-gynecologist, ultrasound doctor
reviews
Make an appointment
Clinic
m. Street 1905 years
Prismakova Natalya Gennadievna
obstetrician-gynecologist, ultrasound doctor
reviews
Make an appointment
Clinic
Taganskaya metro station
Sukharevskaya metro station
Palamarchuk Olga Romanovna
obstetrician-gynecologist, ultrasound doctor
reviews
Make an appointment
Clinic
m. Frunzenskaya
Degoeva Zarema Musaevna
obstetrician-gynecologist, ultrasound doctor
reviews
Make an appointment
Clinic
m. Frunzenskaya
Ermolaeva Anna Sergeevna
obstetrician-gynecologist, ultrasound doctor, reproductologist
reviews
Make an appointment
Clinic
m. Polyanka
Kuznetsov Pavel Andreevich
obstetrician-gynecologist, KMN
reviews
Make an appointment
Clinic
m. Sukharevskaya
Late miscarriage – causes and consequences
The role of pregnancy in a woman’s life cannot be overestimated. From the moment of conception, a woman becomes the bearer of a new life. Unfortunately, not all women are given to endure pregnancy until the final. In some cases, miscarriage occurs at a later date.
What is a late miscarriage
Usually, the term “miscarriage” refers to spontaneous termination of pregnancy up to twenty-two weeks. If the fetus is lost after this period, then the term “premature birth” should be used. But quite often it is called “late miscarriage”. In this case, the fetus has a chance for life if the woman seeks medical help in a timely manner and this assistance is qualified.
If the pregnancy is terminated before the twelfth week, it is called an early miscarriage. It happens in almost every fourth pregnancy. And if we take into account the data of scientific research, we can say that more than half of the fertilized eggs die on the way to the uterus, another quarter of the remaining viable ones die as a result of unsuccessful implantation.
Many women don’t even know about a miscarriage because they think it’s heavy menstruation after a short delay. It is necessary to determine the signs of a miscarriage in early pregnancy. It is characterized by the following symptoms:
- intense drawing pains in the lower abdomen;
- profuse bleeding from the genital tract of a woman, which is accompanied by the release of massive blood clots or small parts of the fetus;
- nausea, vomiting and intestinal dyspepsia.
These signs should alert a woman and cause an immediate visit to a gynecologist. The doctor will examine the patient, perform an ultrasound scan and determine the degree of danger of this condition for the fetus. Since similar symptoms can be with an ectopic pregnancy, this disease should be ruled out immediately. The specialist will determine if the woman suffers from other diseases that could manifest similar symptoms. Then he will take emergency measures, the volume of which will depend on the identified causes of the miscarriage. With an early miscarriage, the fetus has no chance of surviving.
If the pregnancy ends spontaneously between the twelfth and twenty-second weeks, it is a late miscarriage. Threatened late miscarriage has the following symptoms:
- cramping pains resembling those during childbirth;
- uterine bleeding;
- passage of fetal fragments;
- nausea, vomiting.
Causes of miscarriage
Most miscarriages are due to genetic disorders. As you know, when an egg is fertilized by a sperm, a zygote is formed. Each sex cell (both male and female) carries a half set of chromosomes. Thus, the embryo has half of the genetic information from the father, and the other half from the mother. It is fifty percent foreign to the mother’s body. If the pregnancy proceeds normally, then the woman’s body starts a chain of reactions that prevent the expulsion of the fetus. In the event that gene breakdowns occur, protective factors do not work and the mother’s body perceives the fetus as a foreign body, from which it tries to get rid of. As a result, an early miscarriage occurs.
Sometimes gene breakdowns are not decisive in the first trimester of pregnancy. They begin to affect at a later date, and then a late miscarriage occurs. With a late miscarriage, the fetus can be saved.
The genetic information contained in the female and male germ cells is not identical. But in the case of consanguineous marriages or a complete coincidence of genes for some other reason, the woman’s body cannot cope with the tasks. Since the defense mechanisms of the fetus do not work, it is expelled from the womb and a late miscarriage occurs.
Do not forget that after fertilization there is an exchange of genes between male and female chromosomes. At this point, they may break. This will also affect the viability of the fetus and may lead to a late miscarriage.
Congenital and acquired defects in the anatomical structure of the uterus also lead to abortion and late miscarriage. The next cause of late miscarriage is isthmic-cervical insufficiency, or incompetence of the cervix. This is a condition in which the cervix loses its ability to hold the fetus inside the uterus. Late miscarriage occurs with uterine fibroids and malignant neoplasms in its wall.
A separate case is an abortion during the first pregnancy. There is no doubt that every woman has the right to choose whether to leave the pregnancy or not. However, she should be aware that in many cases, cervical insufficiency develops after the first abortion, and the uterus may lose its ability to hold the fetus. The cause of fetal loss in fifteen percent of cases is problems with the umbilical cord of the embryo or placental disorders.
Some infectious diseases, such as rubella, lead to congenital anomalies in the development of the fetus, which make it unviable. The fetus dies, and the uterus begins to expel it from the cavity, which leads to a late miscarriage. The reason for termination of pregnancy may be a violation of hormonal homeostasis in the body of a pregnant woman. This happens with an imbalance of sex hormones or hypothyroidism. The presence of several fetuses in the uterine cavity, active sports, as well as excessive physical and emotional stress quite often lead to termination of pregnancy. The risk of late miscarriage decreases starting from the eighteenth week of pregnancy.
Late miscarriage can be caused by arterial hypertension, which is one of the signs of preeclampsia in pregnant women, and hyperglycemia in diabetes mellitus. Tobacco smoking, alcohol abuse and drug use can adversely affect pregnancy, cause disorders incompatible with the life of the fetus and provoke its death. It is impossible not to note the role of such adverse environmental factors as air pollution, the content of an excess amount of chemicals in water, ionizing radiation on the course of pregnancy and the condition of the fetus. They can also provoke a late miscarriage. It is known that quite often a late miscarriage occurs after suffering emotional upheavals, taking certain medications and injuries.
Sequelae of a late miscarriage
Positive signs, although not particularly pleasant for a woman, that the pregnancy is proceeding normally, in the first trimester of pregnancy are malaise, as well as nausea and vomiting in the morning. If a late miscarriage has already occurred, then it can have unpleasant consequences:
- Uterine bleeding, which can be either profuse and lead to hemorrhagic shock, or insignificant over a long period of time. Sometimes parts of the ovum come off with blood clots.
- Infection of the uterus in case of fetal membranes and particles of the placenta remaining in its cavity. Fragments of an aborted pregnancy can begin to decompose and thereby cause inflammation, which can lead to the death of a woman in case of untimely and unqualified treatment.
- Infertility after late miscarriage is possible after purulent endometritis.
Methods for reducing the risk of complications after a late miscarriage
After a late miscarriage, doctors take all preventive measures to reduce the risk of complications. The choice of treatment method mainly depends on the identified pathology and can be either medical or surgical. If the late miscarriage was incomplete and either parts of the fetus or embryo, or the placenta remained in the uterine cavity, then the most effective and fastest way is to complete the miscarriage. It reduces the severity of bleeding and the intensity of pain, but, at the same time, is the most dangerous.
During surgery, there is always a risk of perforation of the uterine wall or damage to the cervix. In this case, the woman is hospitalized, the operation is performed under general anesthesia. After the operation, she is prescribed intensive postoperative therapy.
Chances of getting pregnant after a late miscarriage
It should be understood that after a late miscarriage there is always a chance of getting pregnant again. However, it must be remembered that after a miscarriage, the probability of terminating a subsequent pregnancy increases by twenty-five percent. Its risks can be minimized only by timely full-fledged treatment. The next pregnancy must be approached carefully and responsibly.
First of all, a woman should know that she is not recommended to have sex for several weeks after a miscarriage in order to avoid infection of the uterine mucosa. Yes, and the uterus after a miscarriage should recover. The first menstruation can be expected only starting from the fifth week after a spontaneous abortion.
It is worth planning a pregnancy after a late miscarriage after six months. At this time, it is necessary to contact the reproductive center to find out the reasons for the termination of pregnancy. A full examination with a spermogram is also recommended for the husband. It is also necessary, having found out the cause of the miscarriage at a later date, to undergo a course of treatment. Excellent results are obtained after spa treatment.
It is also necessary to restore the psycho-emotional balance of the spouses, give them time to realize what has happened and cope with their emotions. They may need the help of a psychologist. Sometimes women fall into a state of depression, from which they can get out after consulting a psychotherapist.
In some cases it may be necessary to consult a geneticist. Modern genetics allows not only to identify the causes of abortion, but also to predict the risks of subsequent conceptions, as well as to prevent miscarriage. You should discuss with your gynecologist the methods of contraception that are safest for a woman planning a pregnancy after a late miscarriage.
Missed miscarriage
In some cases, an undeveloped pregnancy (empty gestational sac) is determined by ultrasound. In this case, if there is a fetal egg, there is no living embryo in it (it either developed incorrectly or lost its viability). A woman’s body may not respond to these changes, and a miscarriage does not occur. The expulsion of a frozen embryo from the uterine cavity will happen one way or another, it is a matter of time. But if this happens on its own, bleeding may begin, which poses a risk to the woman’s life.
In order to resolve the situation, the woman is asked to perform a curettage, or cleaning of the uterus. This procedure is performed under general anesthesia, it is done in a hospital, it lasts a few minutes. The uterine cavity is carefully, but very carefully, cleaned of the fetal egg. This helps to contract the uterus and prevent infection and bleeding. After cleaning, a woman is sometimes prescribed antibiotics.
There is a known method of cleansing the uterus with the help of the hormonal preparation prostaglandin. It is not used so often, because the expected effect is not always observed. In this case, doctors are forced to perform surgery. In case of fetal death in late pregnancy, an artificial birth can be induced by using the hormonal drug oxytocin.
Prevention of late miscarriage
All the factors that lead to miscarriage in late pregnancy can be managed with modern methods of treatment. This greatly increases the chances of success in a subsequent pregnancy. In addition, a woman needs to take care of herself both before pregnancy and from the very beginning. The course of her pregnancy depends on the lifestyle of a woman. In order to avoid late miscarriages, you need to think a hundred times whether to terminate the first pregnancy, even if it was not planned.
You can pay too much for the dubious pleasure of smoking cigarettes or weed, drinking an alcoholic drink or walking around in thin pantyhose in winter. Also, the expectant mother should think about proper nutrition. She should eat a lot of fresh berries, fruits and vegetables, take the vitamins recommended by the doctor.
If you experience pain in the lower abdomen or spotting from the vagina during pregnancy, seek medical attention immediately. Indeed, in many cases, a late miscarriage that has begun can be stopped and the life of the child can be saved. In no case should you use the recommendations of casual acquaintances, girlfriends or craftsmen.
Late miscarriage can be prevented or delayed. In the latter case, the fetus retains a chance for life.
Free appointment with a reproductive specialist
until June 30, 2023
20 days left
Dear patients! Clinic “IVF Center” invites you to free reception of a reproductologist with ultrasound and preparation of a treatment plan .
Start your journey to happiness – right now!
Name *
Telephone *
E-mail *
Message *
By submitting this form, I confirm that, in accordance with the requirements of the “Federal Law on Personal Data No.