Miscarriage: Causes, Prevention, and Support with Sanitas

Discovering you’re pregnant brings excitement and hope for the future. Experiencing a miscarriage, however, can be deeply distressing. You may feel anything from sadness and shock to anger, numbness, or guilt—wondering if there was something you could have done. Seeking answers is natural, especially if you want to try again.

This guide explains the possible causes, signs, and management of miscarriage, as well as how Sanitas is there to support your care and wellbeing.

 

What is a miscarriage?

A miscarriage refers to the loss of a pregnancy before the end of the 23rd week. It can happen for many reasons and most often is not due to anything you’ve done.

 

What causes miscarriage?

Most miscarriages occur because the baby doesn’t develop normally, often due to genetic or chromosomal differences. Sometimes, no clear cause can be found. Other factors may include blood clotting disorders, thyroid problems, anatomical differences in the womb or cervix, vitamin deficiencies, as well as lifestyle factors like smoking, alcohol use, or poor nutrition. Despite these possibilities, many women go on to have successful pregnancies in the future.

 

Is miscarriage common?

Miscarriage is more common than many expect—about 1 in 4 pregnancies ends this way, with risk increasing with age (around 40% for women over 40). Recurrent miscarriage, losing three or more pregnancies in a row, is rare and affects about 1% of couples. Even so, many couples will eventually have a child after recurrent miscarriages.

 

Signs & Diagnosis

Heavy vaginal bleeding, cramping, and abdominal pain may indicate a miscarriage. You might also notice the loss of previous pregnancy symptoms. Light bleeding can be normal, especially early on. If concerned, reach out to your Sanitas GP or midwife—early attention matters. Diagnosis may include blood tests and ultrasound scans depending on the stage of pregnancy.

 

Types & Management

Early miscarriage: Often occurs in the first trimester and is usually identified during an ultrasound or after bleeding. Your doctor may suggest waiting for the process to complete naturally, medication, or surgical intervention if needed.

Late miscarriage: Occurs between 13 and 23 weeks and may require a hospital stay. Causes can include genetic anomalies, cervix or placental problems, or infections. Support from Sanitas specialists and hospitals is available for every step.

Missed miscarriage: Sometimes, scans show the baby has died but the body hasn’t recognized this yet. You’ll discuss options with your doctor, which could include expectant, medical, or surgical management.

 

Preventing Miscarriage

While most miscarriages cannot be prevented, taking steps to maintain your health can reduce risks. Sanitas provides monitoring, advice, and referrals for risk factors and underlying conditions. Recommendations include quitting smoking, avoiding alcohol, eating a balanced diet, keeping a healthy weight, and taking folic acid supplements.

 

Emotional & Practical Support

Recovering physically and emotionally may take time and support. Sanitas offers access to professional advice, scans and checkups, mental health care, and easy appointment booking through the Mi Sanitas app or at partner clinics. Their network ensures care is accessible when you need it most.

 

Miscarriage Treatment with Sanitas

If you experience a miscarriage, your Sanitas health insurance gives you direct access to hospital care, diagnostic tests, specialist support, and follow-up treatment as needed. Depending on your policy, hospitalisation and procedures are typically included, along with consultations in obstetrics or gynaecology and psychological support if requested. You’ll receive care at Sanitas clinics and partner hospitals, all managed through your policy’s co-payment structure (if it applies), making treatment straightforward and accessible during a difficult time.

If you have questions about your cover or need further assistance, We are always ready to help you navigate the next steps.