The term miscarriage is used to describe the spontaneous loss of pregnancy that occurs within the first 24 weeks of pregnancy. Since pregnancy is one of the most treasured experiences for any woman, loss of an unborn child is bound to bring about a considerable amount of sorrow. Many women also go through a phase following a miscarriage, wherein they feel tremendous guilt, revolving around the thought that the miscarriage may have resulted from something that they did. However, it must be understood that most miscarriages occur due to natural reasons that center around genetic abnormalities in the developing baby.
Medical conditions such as hypertension, high blood sugar, uterine irregularities as well as hormonal imbalances may also be responsible for the miscarriage.
Following a miscarriage, it is very essential for the partner as well as other family members and friends to be understanding and supportive. This also includes making sure that the woman does not go into depression or self neglect.
It is not uncommon for a woman who has experienced a miscarriage to ignore herself completely as a result of the grieving process. Very often, this neglect leads to uterine infection after miscarriage.
The most common symptom of a miscarriage is vaginal bleeding. This may range of mild/light spotting to heavy bleeding. However, the volume of the flow decreases with each passing day; the last of the discharge may appear light pinkish in color. The passage of clots as well as cramping is common as the uterus contracts in order to get rid of any pregnancy related tissue. In some cases, regular menstruation may begin after a month while in some cases; it may take time for the menstrual cycle to regularize. At times, the products of conception do not get completely expelled from the uterus and this is the main cause for infection after miscarriage. In this case, a D&C (Dilation & Curettage) may be needed to clean out the uterus. Low hygiene or an improper medical procedure may also lead to infection.
Signs of infection after miscarriage include heavy bleeding, that doesn't seem to stop or become less over a period of time. Occasional severe cramping, fever and chills may also be symptoms of infection after miscarriage. Vaginal discharge that resembles cottage cheese or smells repulsive could be indicative of a yeast infection after miscarriage. Some women could experience pelvic infection after miscarriage referred to as pelvic inflammatory disease wherein the parts of the reproductive system namely the uterus, ovaries or/and fallopian tubes get inflamed. In this case, the miscarriage infection symptoms could range from immense lower abdominal pain and cervical tenderness to painful intercourse as well as irregular menstrual cycles. Any form of infection must be dealt with immediately as neglect could have an adverse effect on future pregnancies.
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