Motherhood is the most exciting stage in a woman’s life as it brings with it a myriad benefits. Some of these include the joy of holding a new life and the ability to see the world through someone else’s eyes. However, these benefits — many of which are intangible — cease to exist when one suffers a miscarriage or a stillbirth.

According to one study, women who experience stillbirth or repeated miscarriages have a dramatically increased risk of heart attack later in life. The study that compared women who had never had a miscarriage with those who had had more than three, found that the latter were about five times more likely to suffer heart attacks.
With each miscarriage a woman’s risk of heart attack went up by about 40 per cent. And having just one stillbirth more than tripled the risk. Women who experienced miscarriages or stillbirths tended to be older, heavier and more sedentary, and were also more likely, than other women, to have diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure, stated the study.
As far as the emotional aspect was concerned, the study found that women who went through multiple miscarriages and lost the opportunity to breast-feed their babies, underwent stress and depression.
Breastfeeding alone can reduce stress levels and the risk of postpartum depression. Besides, nursing triggers the release of the hormone oxytocin, which promotes nurturing and relaxation. Reduced stress levels in turn decrease the chances of high blood pressure and other related ailments.

What is the trigger?

While miscarriages early on in pregnancy are generally attributed to chromosomal problems in the foetus, late miscarriages are believed to involve “some underlying problem with the mother” such as bleeding disorders or blood-vessel problems. Other health conditions such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (which has been linked to heart disease) and infections such as chlamydia (which contributes to plaque build-up in the arteries) may explain the relationship.
Women with chronic health conditions, including diabetes, heart disease or high blood pressure could experience repeated miscarriages if their health is not under control. Untreated infections, such as rubella or herpes, can also lead to problems sustaining a pregnancy.

Counter measures

Women are often treated with hormones following a miscarriage to help the body adjust to the event. Doctors believe that the right hormonal balance will create a better pattern for the body to fight off certain kinds of heart disease that are common in women who suffer a miscarriage.
In situations where there is not enough progesterone within the mother’s body, the pregnancy is unable to sustain itself. A number of women who suffer from this problem are turning to the benefits of progesterone therapy. Since any illness that the mother is affected by can, in some way or the other, affect the child in spite of the very protective placenta, it is advisable to make every attempt to avoid medical illness at this time.

Treating a recurrent syndrome

Chromosome Analysis: Chromosome analysis can be performed on an expecting woman, her partner and the foetus to determine if there are any genetic abnormalities present. A genetic counsellor can then guide her and offer advice on ways to reduce the chances of having a child with a genetic deformity.
Surgery: There are surgical procedures available to help reduce scarring in the uterus or to open up the uterus if it is divided.
Anticoagulants: If a blood disorder is contributing to recurrent miscarriages, baby aspirin and heparin treatment can help to thin the blood, to prevent it from clotting. There are other treatments that are being tested at this time as well, including certain medications that include birth control to control the hormone system and prevent the onset of disease. However, the dangers of these treatments have not been established as yet.

what can be done

There are several things a mother can do to support a healthy pregnancy and prevent a miscarriage. These range from eating a balanced and nutritious diet to taking regular folic acid supplementation.
n Follow a nutritious diet plan that limits fat intake and includes plenty of fruits and vegetables.
n Avoid drinking alcohol and quit smoking, even exposure to cigarette smoke is dangerous. Replace cravings with several glasses of water.
n Exercise regularly, especially simple exercises such as walking. A comfortable walking routine of 30 to 40 minutes a day in safe conditions may be beneficial if your doctor approves.
n Twenty minutes of daily fresh air, without tanning or sunburn, is good for you too, preferably in the morning or late evening.
n Maintain a healthy weight.
n Reduce the consumption of caffeine contained in various beverages and foods.
n Ask your doctor before taking any medication. Avoid exposure to radiation or chemicals, which can be dangerous.
n Maintain the cleanliness and health of pets.
n Stop worrying and make social connections.
n Tell the doctor if you are unduly depressed or stressed. A calm mental state can help protect your pregnancy and allow you to enjoy this special phase in your life.
n Get an adequate amount of rest. Aim for eight hours of sleep each night.
n Avoid strain or heavy work.

The writer is Senior Gynaecologist at The Cradle, Apollo Health and Lifestyle Limited, Gurgaon