The highest risk period for miscarriage is during the first trimester, particularly before 10 weeks of gestation.
Understanding the Risk of Miscarriage
Miscarriage is a distressing event for expectant parents, and understanding when the risk is highest can be helpful. According to studies, the vast majority of miscarriages occur during a specific window of time in early pregnancy.
The First Trimester: The Period of Highest Risk
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Definition: The first trimester is generally defined as weeks 1-12 of pregnancy, although some definitions extend it to week 14.
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Elevated Risk: Around 80% of all pregnancy losses happen during the first trimester.
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Peak Danger: The majority of these first-trimester miscarriages occur before 10 weeks of gestation.
Declining Risk After the First Trimester
As the reference states, the risk of miscarriage usually decreases after 12 weeks gestation. While miscarriage can still happen later in pregnancy, the odds are significantly lower after the first trimester concludes.
Summary Table: Miscarriage Risk
| Time Period | Risk Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Before 10 weeks | Highest | Majority of first-trimester miscarriages occur in this time frame. |
| Weeks 10-12 | High | Still within the first trimester, but risk starts to decrease. |
| After 12 weeks | Lower | The risk of miscarriage significantly decreases. |
