The first trimester, or the first 13 weeks, of pregnancy is generally considered the "danger zone" due to the highest risk of miscarriage.
Miscarriage rates decrease significantly after the first trimester. The second trimester spans weeks 13-28, and after approximately 20 weeks of gestation, the risk of miscarriage drops to less than 0.5%. This reduction in risk is why the first trimester is often referred to as the period requiring the most caution.
Here's a breakdown of the risk by trimester:
- First Trimester (Weeks 1-13): Highest risk of miscarriage. Many factors can contribute, including chromosomal abnormalities in the developing fetus.
- Second Trimester (Weeks 14-27): Significantly lower risk of miscarriage compared to the first trimester.
- Third Trimester (Weeks 28-Birth): While miscarriage risk is very low, other complications like premature labor can arise.
While the term "danger zone" primarily refers to the risk of miscarriage in the first trimester, all stages of pregnancy require careful attention to maternal and fetal health. Regular prenatal care is crucial throughout the entire pregnancy to identify and manage potential risks.
