How to Reduce Risk for Miscarriage

No expectant mother wants to imagine the possibility of a miscarriage. While miscarriage can't be completely avoided, this article will educate you on things you can do to reduce your risk.

Instructions

• 1

  Do not smoke or drink. The carcinogens and nicotine in cigarette smoke and the negative effects of alcohol can do a number of things to a fetus besides provoke miscarriage. It can cause the baby to be born with an enlarged heart or with a nicotine and/or alcohol addiction, and the chances of the baby having any number of other birth defects can nearly double. If you do smoke or drink, you are advised to quit before attempting to conceive.

• 2

  Do not take any drug that has not been approved by your attending physician. Taking prescription drugs such as Vicodin, Loritab or any other prescription pain medicine or OTC drug can cause the death of the baby, or the baby can be born with an addiction or with underdeveloped body parts. Upon conception, immediately notify your maternity care physician of any medicine you may be taking so that she can evaluate the risks to your child.

• 3

  Avoiding caffeine at almost all costs will be good for a fetus. As you know, the body of a fetus is not as developed as that of an adult. Caffeine in large amounts over time can cause problems in the adult circulatory and digestive systems. Caffeine has also been linked to psychological disorders. If a fetus consumes too much caffeine, the following things could result: the fetus could be born with a caffeine addiction, the fetus can be born with a disfigured or defective heart, stomach and other circulatory problems. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, please consider switching to decaffeinated beverages during the course of your pregnancy.