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Can falls cause pregnant mothers to have miscarriages?

On Behalf of | Apr 5, 2023 | Slip-and-fall Accidents |

In Pennsylvania, pregnancy-related concerns such as miscarriage can weigh on mothers, causing anxiety and other symptoms. Several issues can trigger a miscarriage, including physical trauma, such as falling. While the mom and her unborn baby are fine in many cases, the risk increases under certain circumstances.

Falls during pregnancy

Having a fall or slip while pregnant happens pretty often, especially during a woman’s third trimester. A pregnancy hormone called relaxin causes ligaments and the pelvis to soften and widen the pelvic area to prepare for delivering the baby. This bodily change can cause women to become unsteady on their feet.

The possibility of harm to a fetus and the extent of injury from a fall depends on several factors, including the baby’s gestational age, the position of the fetus in the mother’s uterus. It also depends on the intensity of the fall. A woman’s body can accommodate a certain amount of bumps and bruises while carrying a baby. However, a miscarriage, or losing the fetus within the first 20 weeks of pregnancy, can still happen. If a woman has a minor fall or injury, it is better to be safe than sorry and call the doctor to assess potential harm.

First trimester falls

During a woman’s first pregnancy trimester, her body protects the developing fetus with the amniotic fluid and the mother’s pelvis. These physical safeguards keep the chance of miscarriage due to falls relatively low. However, although a large percentage of injuries to pregnant women are minor, sources say they still represent more than 60% of miscarriages associated with trauma from falls and similar accidents.

Falls later in the pregnancy

As a mother’s pregnancy progresses, the risk of complications due to slip-and-fall accidents increases. The weight and position of the fetus in the third trimester significantly shifts the body’s center of gravity to the front and can affect balance. After a fall, women should seek medical attention, especially if experiencing symptoms such as contractions, abdominal pain or vaginal bleeding.

Even if a fall or other injury does not seem like a big deal, a doctor’s visit can confirm the health of your developing baby and guard against harm.

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