Causes of second trimester miscarriage
Second-trimester miscarriage (loss between 13 and 24 weeks of pregnancy) is most commonly caused by cervical insufficiency (weak or damaged cervix), intrauterine or placental infections, and fetal chromosomal or structural abnormalities.
Primary Causes of Second-Trimester Loss
• Cervical Insufficiency (Weak Cervix):
The cervix begins to open too early under the weight of the growing pregnancy, often without strong painful contractions beforehand. This can be due to a natural weakness or previous medical procedures involving the cervix (such as a loop electrosurgical excision procedure or past dilatation and curettage).
• Infections:
Bacteria or viruses can infect the amniotic fluid, the placenta, or the womb itself. Common culprits include Bacterial Vaginosis (BV), sexually transmitted infections, and certain systemic or TORCH infections.
• Chromosomal or Structural Anomalies:
While more frequent in the first trimester, severe genetic mutations or major physical/structural defects in the fetus can still cause a second-trimester loss.
• Uterine Conditions:
Structural issues with the womb—such as large uterine fibroids or an abnormally shaped (congenital) uterus—can compromise the pregnancy.
• Placental Problems:
Issues with how the placenta attaches, develops, or functions can cut off vital oxygen and nutrients to the baby.
• Maternal Medical Conditions:
Uncontrolled chronic health issues like diabetes, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, or autoimmune disorders such as Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS—which increases blood clotting risks) raise the likelihood of late loss.
• Lifestyle and Risk Factors:
Heavy smoking, alcohol use, or illicit drug use (such as cocaine) are also linked to an increased risk.
Primary Causes of Second-Trimester Loss
• Cervical Insufficiency (Weak Cervix):
The cervix begins to open too early under the weight of the growing pregnancy, often without strong painful contractions beforehand. This can be due to a natural weakness or previous medical procedures involving the cervix (such as a loop electrosurgical excision procedure or past dilatation and curettage).
• Infections:
Bacteria or viruses can infect the amniotic fluid, the placenta, or the womb itself. Common culprits include Bacterial Vaginosis (BV), sexually transmitted infections, and certain systemic or TORCH infections.
• Chromosomal or Structural Anomalies:
While more frequent in the first trimester, severe genetic mutations or major physical/structural defects in the fetus can still cause a second-trimester loss.
• Uterine Conditions:
Structural issues with the womb—such as large uterine fibroids or an abnormally shaped (congenital) uterus—can compromise the pregnancy.
• Placental Problems:
Issues with how the placenta attaches, develops, or functions can cut off vital oxygen and nutrients to the baby.
• Maternal Medical Conditions:
Uncontrolled chronic health issues like diabetes, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, or autoimmune disorders such as Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS—which increases blood clotting risks) raise the likelihood of late loss.
• Lifestyle and Risk Factors:
Heavy smoking, alcohol use, or illicit drug use (such as cocaine) are also linked to an increased risk.
31-35, F
