### Understanding Miscarriage and the Role of Uncontrolled Diabetes Miscarriage, also known as spontaneous abortion, occurs when an embryo or fetus dies before the 20th week of pregnancy. It's a common experience, with 11 to 22 percent of pregnancies in the United States ending in miscarriage, most often within the first 13 weeks. The causes of miscarriage can be varied and complex. #### Common Causes of Miscarriage 1. **Chromosomal Abnormalities**: The most frequent cause of miscarriage is chromosomal abnormalities in the embryo. These abnormalities can prevent proper development, leading to pregnancy loss. 2. **Uterine Abnormalities**: Conditions like fibroids or structural problems in the uterus can interfere with the implantation and growth of the embryo. 3. **Medical Conditions**: Certain medical conditions, including poorly controlled diabetes, hypothyroidism, and celiac disease, can increase the risk of miscarriage. 4. **Age**: The risk of miscarriage increases with age, particularly for women over 40. 5. **Lifestyle Factors**: Smoking, exposure to harmful environmental factors, being underweight or overweight, and deficiencies in certain vitamins can also contribute to miscarriage risk. 6. **Medications**: Some medications, like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can increase the risk of miscarriage if taken around the time of conception. #### The Impact of Uncontrolled Diabetes Uncontrolled diabetes can significantly increase the risk of miscarriage. High blood sugar levels can affect the development of the embryo and the health of the placenta, leading to complications that can result in pregnancy loss. Managing diabetes through proper medical care and lifestyle changes is crucial for reducing this risk. #### Emotional and Physical Recovery Experiencing a miscarriage can be emotionally and physically challenging. It's important to seek support and allow time for healing. Most women who have a miscarriage go on to have successful pregnancies in the future. If you have multiple miscarriages, consulting a reproductive endocrinologist can help identify underlying issues and improve the chances of a healthy pregnancy. #### Moving Forward After a miscarriage, it's generally safe to try to conceive again after your next menstrual cycle. This allows the body to recover and makes it easier to calculate the due date of the next pregnancy. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and support.