What Are the Most Common Causes of Second Trimester Miscarriage?
One of the most common causes of second trimester miscarriage is chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus. Other causes can include problems with the pregnancy, medical problems with the mother, and congenital birth defects like heart defects. The risks of a second trimester miscarriage are very low, and in most cases, miscarriages are not preventable. Women who experience multiple miscarriages may want to consider medical screening to identify the causes. Chromosomal abnormalities are a leading cause of second trimester miscarriage. In some cases, the fetus actually dies during the first trimester but the diagnosis is missed, a situation known as a missed miscarriage. Birth defects, like severe heart anomalies, are another common cause. Problems with the pregnancy, such as placental disorders, weakened cervix, and preterm labor can all be causes of a second trimester miscarriage.