Most miscarriages happen in the first trimester. Miscarriages at this stage are common. They often happen because of chromosome problems with the fetus. This means many miscarriages cannot be prevented.
The causes of miscarriage are usually out of your control. But there are some things you can do to keep healthy before you get pregnant and during pregnancy.
These may help to lower your risk of miscarriage or recurrent miscarriages.
Do
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have a healthy diet and avoid certain foods
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take precautions to prevent getting infections - for example, wash your hands regularly and get the vaccines you need during pregnancy
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get early treatment if you have symptoms of an infection
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take folic acid for at least 3 months before you get pregnant
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take a vitamin D supplement before you get pregnant and during pregnancy
Getting support to make changes
It is important not to smoke, drink alcohol or use drugs if you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant. Sometimes it is hard to make changes. But it is possible with support.
Get help to:
Check medicines with your doctor
If you are trying for a baby or you become pregnant, check with your doctor:
- before taking any supplements - they can tell you if these are safe and how much to take
- if you need to change a medicine or dosage
Common concerns about miscarriage
Most miscarriages are not caused by anything you did.
Miscarriage is not caused by:
- having a shock or fright during pregnancy
- exercise during pregnancy - talk to your GP or midwife about how much exercise you should do
- lifting or straining during pregnancy
- working during pregnancy - talk to your GP or midwife if you are worried about sitting or standing for long periods
- having sex during pregnancy
- travelling by air
- eating spicy food
Look after your mental health
If you had a miscarriage, it is normal to feel anxious about another pregnancy. Anxiety and stress do not cause miscarriage. But it's important to look after your mental health.
Share your feelings with someone you trust, such as your partner, family member or a friend.
It can also be helpful to talk to someone who had a pregnancy loss and became pregnant again.
Talk to your GP if you feel your anxiety is overwhelming or you are not coping.