Causes of Abortion
Causes of abortion:
Abortion, the termination of a pregnancy, can occur for various reasons, which can be broadly categorized into spontaneous abortion (miscarriage) and induced abortion. Below are the causes of each:
1. Spontaneous Abortion (Miscarriage)
Spontaneous abortion occurs naturally and is often beyond the control of the pregnant individual. Common causes include:
A. Chromosomal Abnormalities
- The most common cause of miscarriage (about 50-70% of cases).
- Errors during fertilization or cell division can lead to genetic abnormalities in the embryo, making it non-viable.
B. Hormonal Imbalances
- Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, or insufficient progesterone levels can disrupt pregnancy.
C. Uterine or Cervical Issues
- Structural abnormalities in the uterus (e.g., fibroids, septate uterus).
- Cervical insufficiency (weak cervix that opens prematurely).
D. Infections
- Bacterial or viral infections (e.g., listeria, toxoplasmosis, rubella, or sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia or syphilis).
E. Chronic Health Conditions
- Diabetes, hypertension, autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus), or blood clotting disorders.
F. Lifestyle Factors
- Smoking, alcohol consumption, drug use, or excessive caffeine intake.
- Exposure to environmental toxins or radiation.
G. Advanced Maternal Age
- Risk of miscarriage increases with age due to a higher likelihood of chromosomal abnormalities.
H. Trauma or Physical Stress
- Severe injury, excessive physical exertion, or emotional stress.
2. Induced Abortion
Induced abortion is a deliberate termination of pregnancy and can be performed for medical or personal reasons. Causes or reasons include:
A. Medical Reasons
- Risk to the pregnant person’s life (e.g., severe preeclampsia, eclampsia, or heart disease).
- Fetal abnormalities or conditions incompatible with life.
B. Personal or Social Reasons
- Unintended pregnancy due to contraceptive failure or lack of access to contraception.
- Financial instability, lack of support, or inability to care for a child.
- Pregnancy resulting from rape or incest.
C. Legal and Safe Access
- In countries where abortion is legal, individuals may choose it for a variety of personal, social, or economic reasons.
3. Other Factors
- Medications or Procedures: Certain medications or medical procedures can inadvertently cause abortion.
- Unknown Causes: In some cases, the cause of abortion remains unidentified despite medical evaluation.
If you or someone you know is experiencing or considering abortion, it’s important to seek professional medical advice and support.
