Dear ylv289,

A miscarriage, or loss of an early pregnancy, is the expulsion of a fetus from the uterus before it has developed enough to survive. Miscarriages are called spontaneous abortions and they occur in 15 percent to 20 percent of all pregnancies. Most miscarriages happen during the first trimester (first 12 weeks) of pregnancy.

Many miscarriages are caused because of an anatomic or genetic abnormality in the fetus. Therefore, when a fetus is not developing normally, certain hormone levels drop, and the lining of the uterus begins to shed. The pregnancy separates from the uterus and passes out of the body.

Miscarriage is not caused by the activities of a healthy pregnant woman, such as jumping, vigorous exercise, and frequent vaginal intercourse. Trauma causes miscarriage only very rarely. Stress and emotional shock do not cause miscarriage either.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.