Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

How A Pregnant Woman’s Weight Affects Her Baby's Risk For Infections?

<span>Pregnancy</span> is a critical period, not just for the physical development of the baby but also for laying the foundation of their long-term health. A new study released recently in BMJ Medicine establishes a strong link between maternal obesity in pregnancy and a child's elevated risk of being hospitalized for severe infection. The results are dramatic: children born to severely obese mothers are 41% more likely to be hospitalized for infections during their first year of life. That jumps to 53% between the ages of 5 and 15. These data put in sharp relief the imperative to learn more about how the weight of the mother might influence the immunity and health of subsequent generations.

Conducted by researchers at the University of Oxford, the longitudinal study tracked 9,540 births in Bradford, U.K., between 2007 and 2010. Their goal: to investigate long-term health outcomes in children born to overweight or obese mothers. More than half of the mothers in the study approximately 56% were found to be overweight or obese at the time of their pregnancy.

Infants of mothers with a BMI of 35 or more were especially at risk. The excess risk of infection was not entirely accounted for by the most frequent pregnancy complications of obesity, such as pre-term birth, which only explained 7% of the association. Other factors, including cesarean section (21%) and obesity in childhood at age 4 or 5 (26%), explained more of the excess risk.

Scientists suspect that something more is going on—perhaps related to how obesity in pregnancy might change a child's inflammatory system, immune system maturation, gut microbiota, or even gene expression, predisposing them to viral respiratory, gastrointestinal, and multisystem infections.

<h2>What Are The Risks Beyond Birth and Into Adolescence?</h2>

Infections were the leading cause of unnecessary hospital visits among the children in the study. Although infection in early childhood is usually viewed as a normal component of immune system maturation, the data indicates that children born to mothers with severe obesity were much more likely to experience infection that necessitated medical care.

These were not wimpy colds or sniffles—the admissions were for serious respiratory ailments, tummy bugs, and occasionally, intricate viral infections in multiple organ systems. The ramifications are two-fold: first, health costs and hospital capacity are impacted; second, children might suffer suboptimal health and interrupted development in early life.

<h2>Why Pre-Pregnancy Weight Matters?</h2>

Experts concur that the ideal window for intervention is before conception. Shedding even a moderate level of weight pre-pregnancy can greatly eliminate the chances of complications for both the mother and the child.

When a woman has a healthy body weight before pregnancy, she is laying the foundation for a healthier pregnancy, easier birth, and greater immunity in her child," says Victoria Coathup, lead author of the study and an Oxford epidemiologist.

Pregnancy has been termed a "teachable moment," with mothers being more receptive to adopting sustainable lifestyle modifications. Emphasis on diet, exercise, and metabolic well-being prior to conception can prove to have a greater impact than reactive intervention during or following pregnancy.

<h2>Why Weight Gain Monitoring During Pregnancy?</h2>

Tracking weight gain in pregnancy is equally crucial as achieving a healthy weight prior to pregnancy. During the initial prenatal visit, providers generally compute BMI and give recommendations for weight gain. Weighing regularly and checking fetal growth at future visits ensures both mother and baby remain on a healthy path.

Notably, not all departures from weight gain guidelines are troublesome. In the case of a pregnant woman who gains less than desired but whose fetus is growing well, rigid efforts to "catch up" are not always required. Attention should be directed toward nutrient-rich foods, rather than calorie consumption.

<h2>Impact on Labor, Delivery, and Beyond</h2>

Obesity not only affects the health of the baby—it also makes labor and delivery more difficult. Overweight and obese women tend to have longer labors, can experience difficulties with fetal monitoring, and are more likely to need a cesarean section.

Cesarean sections in obese women also have their risks: infections, excessive blood loss, and prolonged recovery times. Preventive measures such as compression devices to help prevent blood clot formation and planned pain management programs can alleviate these issues. However, being a healthy weight prior to conception continues to be the best risk reduction measure.

The message is not one of stigmatizing pregnancy weight but one of welcoming evidence-based practices that support maternal and infant health. From preconception education and prenatal nutrition counseling to lifestyle support postpartum, interventions need to be holistic and accessible.

Nutritionists advise emphasizing whole foods, lean protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats, and exercising regularly, moderately. Support systems clinical and emotional alike help to maintain these habits throughout pregnancy and thereafter.

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pregnancy

pregnancy obesity risks

maternal obesity infections

childhood infection risk

obese pregnancy outcomes

weight during pregnancy

bmi and baby health

obesity pregnancy complications

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Pregnancy is a critical period, not just for the physical development of the baby but also for laying the foundation of their long-term health. A new study released recently in BMJ Medicine establishes a strong link between maternal obesity in pregnancy and a child's elevated risk of being hospitalized for severe infection. The results are dramatic: children born to severely obese mothers are 41% more likely to be hospitalized for infections during their first year of life. That jumps to 53% between the ages of 5 and 15. These data put in sharp relief the imperative to learn more about how the weight of the mother might influence the immunity and health of subsequent generations.Conducted by researchers at the University of Oxford, the longitudinal study tracked 9,540 births in Bradford, U.K., between 2007 and 2010. Their goal: to investigate long-term health outcomes in children born to overweight or obese mothers. More than half of the mothers in the study approximately 56% were found to be overweight or obese at the time of their pregnancy.Infants of mothers with a BMI of 35 or more were especially at risk. The excess risk of infection was not entirely accounted for by the most frequent pregnancy complications of obesity, such as pre-term birth, which only explained 7% of the association. Other factors, including cesarean section (21%) and obesity in childhood at age 4 or 5 (26%), explained more of the excess risk.Scientists suspect that something more is going on—perhaps related to how obesity in pregnancy might change a child's inflammatory system, immune system maturation, gut microbiota, or even gene expression, predisposing them to viral respiratory, gastrointestinal, and multisystem infections.What Are The Risks Beyond Birth and Into Adolescence?Infections were the leading cause of unnecessary hospital visits among the children in the study. Although infection in early childhood is usually viewed as a normal component of immune system maturation, the data indicates that children born to mothers with severe obesity were much more likely to experience infection that necessitated medical care.These were not wimpy colds or sniffles—the admissions were for serious respiratory ailments, tummy bugs, and occasionally, intricate viral infections in multiple organ systems. The ramifications are two-fold: first, health costs and hospital capacity are impacted; second, children might suffer suboptimal health and interrupted development in early life.Why Pre-Pregnancy Weight Matters?Experts concur that the ideal window for intervention is before conception. Shedding even a moderate level of weight pre-pregnancy can greatly eliminate the chances of complications for both the mother and the child.When a woman has a healthy body weight before pregnancy, she is laying the foundation for a healthier pregnancy, easier birth, and greater immunity in her child," says Victoria Coathup, lead author of the study and an Oxford epidemiologist.Pregnancy has been termed a "teachable moment," with mothers being more receptive to adopting sustainable lifestyle modifications. Emphasis on diet, exercise, and metabolic well-being prior to conception can prove to have a greater impact than reactive intervention during or following pregnancy.Why Weight Gain Monitoring During Pregnancy?Tracking weight gain in pregnancy is equally crucial as achieving a healthy weight prior to pregnancy. During the initial prenatal visit, providers generally compute BMI and give recommendations for weight gain. Weighing regularly and checking fetal growth at future visits ensures both mother and baby remain on a healthy path.Notably, not all departures from weight gain guidelines are troublesome. In the case of a pregnant woman who gains less than desired but whose fetus is growing well, rigid efforts to "catch up" are not always required. Attention should be directed toward nutrient-rich foods, rather than calorie consumption.Impact on Labor, Delivery, and BeyondObesity not only affects the health of the baby—it also makes labor and delivery more difficult. Overweight and obese women tend to have longer labors, can experience difficulties with fetal monitoring, and are more likely to need a cesarean section.Cesarean sections in obese women also have their risks: infections, excessive blood loss, and prolonged recovery times. Preventive measures such as compression devices to help prevent blood clot formation and planned pain management programs can alleviate these issues. However, being a healthy weight prior to conception continues to be the best risk reduction measure.The message is not one of stigmatizing pregnancy weight but one of welcoming evidence-based practices that support maternal and infant health. From preconception education and prenatal nutrition counseling to lifestyle support postpartum, interventions need to be holistic and accessible.Nutritionists advise emphasizing whole foods, lean protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats, and exercising regularly, moderately. Support systems clinical and emotional alike help to maintain these habits throughout pregnancy and thereafter.

how a pregnant woman’s weight affects her baby's risk for infections?

Aarushi Bhadury

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Having a family pet is a favorable idea considered by many. While parents of young children are worried about bacteria and germs being an issue, there are also other factors to consider. Many studies, like ‘The Power of Pets’ published in the News in Health, have shown how pets play a very important role in a child’s development. They explain how pets have been observed to lower cortisol levels as well as lower blood pressure. They also pointed out that studies have found pets to lower the feeling of loneliness, increase social support as well, and boost your mood. 

A new study shows a favorable result for families who wish to have pets, especially dogs, as they not only passively help your kid’s health, but they can also have an active effect on them. 

New research suggests that having a family dog might lower a baby's chances of getting <span>eczema</span> later in life. This study, published on June 4th in the journal Allergy, indicates that being around dogs could actually change how a child's genes react to eczema, by calming down skin inflammation.

Researchers explained that while we know genes play a role in eczema risk and that dogs might be protective, this is the first study to show how this happens at a very basic level. Eczema happens when something irritates the skin, causing it to become dry, itchy, and inflamed. We know some people are born more likely to get eczema, but exactly how their genes and their surroundings work together to either increase or decrease this risk hasn't been clear. 

<h2>How Was The Research Conducted? </h2>

The researchers conducted a comprehensive analysis of data from 16 previously conducted studies. Their goal was to identify interactions between 24 specific genetic variants already known to be linked to eczema and a list of 18 environmental factors that could potentially influence a baby's susceptibility to the condition later in life. 

which included over 25,000 people, narrowed down the environmental factors to seven key ones: antibiotic use, owning a cat, owning a dog, breastfeeding, having an older sibling, smoking, and hygiene. 

The team then applied these findings to data from another 254,000 people to see which genes and environmental factors had the biggest impact on eczema risk. This second look found that a baby's exposure to dogs affects the interleukin-7 gene. This gene is involved in making a type of immune protein that helps control inflammation. Lab tests showed that being around dogs interacts with a gene variation that might otherwise cause eczema, essentially reducing skin inflammation by changing how interleukin-7 proteins work in human skin cells. 

The experts explained that their research aims to answer common questions parents ask, like "Why does my child have eczema?" and "What can I do to protect my baby?" While these findings are exciting, the researchers also stressed that more studies are needed to confirm what they found in the lab and to better understand exactly how dogs might affect human genes in this way. Researchers believes these findings give us a chance to tackle the rise of allergic diseases and protect future generations. 

eczema

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can pets pass bacteria to kids

Pets and skin health

can pets cause skin inflammation

pet allergies

Having a family pet is a favorable idea considered by many. While parents of young children are worried about bacteria and germs being an issue, there are also other factors to consider. Many studies, like ‘The Power of Pets’ published in the News in Health, have shown how pets play a very important role in a child’s development. They explain how pets have been observed to lower cortisol levels as well as lower blood pressure. They also pointed out that studies have found pets to lower the feeling of loneliness, increase social support as well, and boost your mood. A new study shows a favorable result for families who wish to have pets, especially dogs, as they not only passively help your kid’s health, but they can also have an active effect on them. New research suggests that having a family dog might lower a baby's chances of getting eczema later in life. This study, published on June 4th in the journal Allergy, indicates that being around dogs could actually change how a child's genes react to eczema, by calming down skin inflammation. How Does Eczema Affect Kids? Researchers explained that while we know genes play a role in eczema risk and that dogs might be protective, this is the first study to show how this happens at a very basic level. Eczema happens when something irritates the skin, causing it to become dry, itchy, and inflamed. We know some people are born more likely to get eczema, but exactly how their genes and their surroundings work together to either increase or decrease this risk hasn't been clear. How Was The Research Conducted? The researchers conducted a comprehensive analysis of data from 16 previously conducted studies. Their goal was to identify interactions between 24 specific genetic variants already known to be linked to eczema and a list of 18 environmental factors that could potentially influence a baby's susceptibility to the condition later in life. which included over 25,000 people, narrowed down the environmental factors to seven key ones: antibiotic use, owning a cat, owning a dog, breastfeeding, having an older sibling, smoking, and hygiene. Dogs, Genes, and Inflammation The team then applied these findings to data from another 254,000 people to see which genes and environmental factors had the biggest impact on eczema risk. This second look found that a baby's exposure to dogs affects the interleukin-7 gene. This gene is involved in making a type of immune protein that helps control inflammation. Lab tests showed that being around dogs interacts with a gene variation that might otherwise cause eczema, essentially reducing skin inflammation by changing how interleukin-7 proteins work in human skin cells. The experts explained that their research aims to answer common questions parents ask, like "Why does my child have eczema?" and "What can I do to protect my baby?" While these findings are exciting, the researchers also stressed that more studies are needed to confirm what they found in the lab and to better understand exactly how dogs might affect human genes in this way. Researchers believes these findings give us a chance to tackle the rise of allergic diseases and protect future generations. 

having a family pet can decrease the chances of your kid developing eczema

Ishita Roy

Wegovy Is The Go-To Weightloss Drug Choice For Most US Teens

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More American teens are being prescribed <span>Wegovy</span>, a weight-loss drug that mimics a hormone to regulate appetite, as doctors and families grow more comfortable using medications to treat obesity in adolescents. While this signals growing acceptance of medical tools to tackle a complex and often lifelong health issue, experts caution that challenges around access, affordability, and long-term safety persist.

<h4>Sharp Rise in Teen Prescriptions</h4>

Wegovy was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in late 2022 for children aged 12 and older who are living with obesity. Since then, prescriptions have surged. According to health data company Truveta, which reviewed medical records from 30 U.S. health systems, prescriptions for Wegovy among teens jumped by 50% in 2024—rising from 9.9 per 100,000 adolescents in 2023 to 14.8 per 100,000 in 2024. The first quarter of 2025 showed another increase, with the rate reaching 17.3 per 100,000.

But these numbers are still small compared to the scale of the issue. Government data shows that 8 million U.S. teens—about 23% of those aged 12 to 19—are living with obesity, a number that has more than quadrupled since 1980. The condition raises long-term risks such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and liver disease.

<h4>A Promising Tool, But Not a Cure-All</h4>

“It’s promising that more young people are using these medications, but it’s still a very small percentage of patients with severe obesity that are getting access to them,” said Dr. Cate Varney, an obesity medicine specialist at the University of Virginia Health System, in an interview with NBC News. “When lifestyle changes alone are insufficient, we need these additional tools.”

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) updated its guidelines in 2023 to recommend that doctors consider GLP-1 medications, like Wegovy, for children 12 and older with obesity. GLP-1 drugs mimic the effects of a hormone that controls hunger and food intake. However, only Wegovy is FDA-approved for adolescents. Others, such as Ozempic and Zepbound, are not approved for teen <span>weight loss</span>, though they are being studied for future use.

<h4>Safety, Access, and Insurance Hurdles</h4>

Despite the increased use, concerns linger. Experts point out that there is limited long-term data on how these medications may affect a developing adolescent’s body. “These medications are likely to be needed for a very long time to maintain weight,” said Dr. Robert Siegel of Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. “And we only have a relatively short-term experience with them.”

Insurance coverage also presents a significant barrier. Many health plans do not cover weight-loss drugs for teens and often deny coverage for complementary care such as visits to dietitians or behavioral counseling. At Nemours Children’s Hospital in Delaware, about 25% of teens in one obesity treatment program were prescribed Wegovy or a similar drug last year—almost double the number from 2023. Still, many could not access the drug due to insurance or concerns about side effects.

Novo Nordisk, the maker of Wegovy, claims its trials found no negative effects on puberty or growth. Eli Lilly, which produces Zepbound, is conducting its own studies in teens and so far reports no adverse effects on growth or metabolism.

“We are confident in the proven safety and efficacy of our GLP-1 medicines,” Novo Nordisk said in a statement. Still, both researchers and government officials, including U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., stress the need for long-term studies to fully understand the impact of using these medications in young people.

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health and wellness

weight loss

weight loss drugs

Weightloss in US

US teens and weight loss

More American teens are being prescribed Wegovy, a weight-loss drug that mimics a hormone to regulate appetite, as doctors and families grow more comfortable using medications to treat obesity in adolescents. While this signals growing acceptance of medical tools to tackle a complex and often lifelong health issue, experts caution that challenges around access, affordability, and long-term safety persist.Sharp Rise in Teen PrescriptionsWegovy was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in late 2022 for children aged 12 and older who are living with obesity. Since then, prescriptions have surged. According to health data company Truveta, which reviewed medical records from 30 U.S. health systems, prescriptions for Wegovy among teens jumped by 50% in 2024—rising from 9.9 per 100,000 adolescents in 2023 to 14.8 per 100,000 in 2024. The first quarter of 2025 showed another increase, with the rate reaching 17.3 per 100,000.But these numbers are still small compared to the scale of the issue. Government data shows that 8 million U.S. teens—about 23% of those aged 12 to 19—are living with obesity, a number that has more than quadrupled since 1980. The condition raises long-term risks such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and liver disease.A Promising Tool, But Not a Cure-All“It’s promising that more young people are using these medications, but it’s still a very small percentage of patients with severe obesity that are getting access to them,” said Dr. Cate Varney, an obesity medicine specialist at the University of Virginia Health System, in an interview with NBC News. “When lifestyle changes alone are insufficient, we need these additional tools.”The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) updated its guidelines in 2023 to recommend that doctors consider GLP-1 medications, like Wegovy, for children 12 and older with obesity. GLP-1 drugs mimic the effects of a hormone that controls hunger and food intake. However, only Wegovy is FDA-approved for adolescents. Others, such as Ozempic and Zepbound, are not approved for teen weight loss, though they are being studied for future use.Safety, Access, and Insurance HurdlesDespite the increased use, concerns linger. Experts point out that there is limited long-term data on how these medications may affect a developing adolescent’s body. “These medications are likely to be needed for a very long time to maintain weight,” said Dr. Robert Siegel of Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. “And we only have a relatively short-term experience with them.”Insurance coverage also presents a significant barrier. Many health plans do not cover weight-loss drugs for teens and often deny coverage for complementary care such as visits to dietitians or behavioral counseling. At Nemours Children’s Hospital in Delaware, about 25% of teens in one obesity treatment program were prescribed Wegovy or a similar drug last year—almost double the number from 2023. Still, many could not access the drug due to insurance or concerns about side effects.What the Future HoldsNovo Nordisk, the maker of Wegovy, claims its trials found no negative effects on puberty or growth. Eli Lilly, which produces Zepbound, is conducting its own studies in teens and so far reports no adverse effects on growth or metabolism.“We are confident in the proven safety and efficacy of our GLP-1 medicines,” Novo Nordisk said in a statement. Still, both researchers and government officials, including U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., stress the need for long-term studies to fully understand the impact of using these medications in young people.

wegovy is the go-to choice weightloss drug choice for most us teens

What Are The Chances Of Having A Miscarriage After IVF Success? Expert Explains

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After the long, emotionally and physically demanding journey of in-vitro fertilization (IVF), hearing the words “you’re pregnant” often feels like crossing the finish line. However, for many couples, particularly those navigating fertility challenges, <span>pregnancy</span> is only part of the journey—and miscarriage remains a deeply feared possibility.

Experts points out that although IVF brings a lot of couples closer to parenthood, it does not entirely prevent the risk of miscarriage. "About 15% of all pregnancies, whether they occur naturally or through assisted reproductive technology such as IVF or IUI, result in miscarriage," says Dr. Varsha Patil, a well-known fertility expert. The number may sound shocking, but with the knowledge of the causes, risk factors, and preventive measures, the couple is given the clarity and confidence to proceed.

A miscarriage in medical terminology is the spontaneous loss of pregnancy before 20 weeks of gestation. In Dr. Patil's opinion, miscarriages can be generally divided into two broad categories—early miscarriage, which is a pregnancy loss before 13 weeks, and late miscarriage, which takes place between 13 to 20 weeks. Although it's easy to think that when women become pregnant after IVF, they've exceeded the most dangerous period, the truth is usually different. IVF pregnancies, which are thoroughly monitored, are not completely safe from complications. Actually, some factors underlying the case—like maternal age, embryo quality, uterine anomalies, and hormonal imbalance—can still lead to miscarriage despite a successful embryo transfer.

<h2>What Causes Miscarriage After IVF?</h2>

Miscarriages after IVF are generally not an indication of treatment failure but usually result from natural biological and physiological problems. Chromosomal abnormalities are one of the most frequent reasons for miscarriage irrespective of how pregnancy is achieved. "An embryo with the incorrect number of chromosomes is unlikely to survive," says Dr. Patil, pointing to the biological problem that can sideline even the best-planned IVF pregnancy. In addition to this, maternal health is also crucial—chronic diseases like uncontrolled diabetes, thyroid disturbances, kidney illness, and autoimmune diseases can disrupt a normal pregnancy and predispose to loss. Lifestyle factors are also very important.

Cigarette smoking, alcohol use, illicit drug use, and even overuse of caffeine are all recognized risk factors for miscarriage. Dr. Patil reiterates that having IVF doesn't erase the need to make healthier lifestyle changes. Physical conditions like fibroids, polyps, a uterine septum, or an incompetent cervix can make it difficult to carry a pregnancy to term. Advanced age is another significant factor; women above 35 have a 25% or more chance of miscarriage, and for women aged above 40, this chance increases to more than 50%. In addition, serious anemia, malnutrition, and inadequate post-embryo transfer medical follow-up can adversely affect pregnancy and hence require holistic post-IVF care to ensure a successful process.

<h2>How Age Can Affect Chances Of Miscarriage After IVF?</h2>

Although age is a natural component of reproductive aging, it plays an extensive role in the success of IVF. Dr. Patil clarifies, "Between 20 and 35, the rate of miscarriage is 10–15%. But post 35, the rate increases significantly." This is partly because eggs from women who are older have a greater chance of chromosomal abnormalities.

For individuals who are thinking about IVF later in life, this information underscores the value of genetic screening and preconception counseling to get the healthiest embryos to transfer.

Embryo quality is critical to the success of IVF—and to eliminating the risk of miscarriage. As Dr. Patil puts it, "A good quality embryo has a much lower risk of miscarriage than a poor quality one."

Chromosomal information clarifies the different rates of miscarriage associated with the quality of the embryo.

Research indicates that high-quality embryos suffer a miscarriage rate of about 13.3%, but low-quality embryos can suffer a much higher percentage, about 20%. This is where sophisticated reproductive procedures such as Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidies (PGTA) are utilized. PGTA allows physicians to detect chromosomally normal (euploid) embryos prior to implantation, significantly enhancing the likelihood of a successful pregnancy while minimizing the risk of miscarriage. For couples who have gone through the devastation of miscarriage following IVF, the path ahead seems uncertain.

How long, then, should one wait before attempting another pregnancy? In Dr. Patil's opinion, a waiting time of 2 to 3 months is what is usually advised. This window of time accommodates both emotional recovery and physical healing," she explains. It also allows fertility doctors to assess any underlying complications, fine-tune medication regimens, and perform any further medical procedures that are required. Sparing this time not only gets the body ready for another cycle, but it also enables couples to rejoin the process with fresh hope and knowledge-based support. 

<h2>Signs of Miscarriage Women Should Watch For</h2>

Pregnancies that occur through IVF are normally closely monitored, but it's still important for women to remain vigilant for complications. Dr. Patil enumerates the following signs that may be a sign of miscarriage:

<ul><li>Spotting or brownish discharge</li><li>Moderate to heavy vaginal bleeding</li><li>Abdominal cramps or lower back pain</li><li>Sudden loss of pregnancy symptoms (such as nausea or breast tenderness)</li><li>Fluid or tissue passing from the vagina</li><li>Lack of fetal heartbeat or growth on ultrasound</li></ul>

If any of these symptoms are noticed, immediate medical consultation is essential. "The sooner we take action, the greater opportunity we have to offer support or handle complications," she maintains.

A miscarriage, be it following natural conception or IVF, is not merely a medical occurrence—though an emotional one. Dr. Patil forbids couples to blame themselves. "It's a natural aspect of the reproductive cycle, frequently as a result of factors nobody has control over."

Support systems, counseling, and community groups may assist couples in dealing with sorrow in a positive way while remaining positive about the future. Significantly, a single miscarriage does not predict the next pregnancy to end similarly. With updated technologies, individualized fertility care, and psychological strength, numerous couples proceed to have healthy pregnancies following miscarriage.

Whereas IVF provides access to parenthood for millions worldwide, it's also important to note that it does not entirely eliminate the threat of miscarriage. Elements such as age, the quality of the embryo, maternal health, and lifestyle all remain crucial in determining the success.

What is still crucial, as Dr. Patil stresses, is educated optimism. "Couples must know about the risks but not be discouraged by them. With proper medical attention, emotional support, and healthy lifestyles, the journey to parenthood continues to hold hope."

<em>Dr Varsha Patil is a Fertility specialist at GarbhaGudi IVF Centre, Bengaluru in India</em>

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After the long, emotionally and physically demanding journey of in-vitro fertilization (IVF), hearing the words “you’re pregnant” often feels like crossing the finish line. However, for many couples, particularly those navigating fertility challenges, pregnancy is only part of the journey—and miscarriage remains a deeply feared possibility.Experts points out that although IVF brings a lot of couples closer to parenthood, it does not entirely prevent the risk of miscarriage. "About 15% of all pregnancies, whether they occur naturally or through assisted reproductive technology such as IVF or IUI, result in miscarriage," says Dr. Varsha Patil, a well-known fertility expert. The number may sound shocking, but with the knowledge of the causes, risk factors, and preventive measures, the couple is given the clarity and confidence to proceed.What Is A Miscarriage?A miscarriage in medical terminology is the spontaneous loss of pregnancy before 20 weeks of gestation. In Dr. Patil's opinion, miscarriages can be generally divided into two broad categories—early miscarriage, which is a pregnancy loss before 13 weeks, and late miscarriage, which takes place between 13 to 20 weeks. Although it's easy to think that when women become pregnant after IVF, they've exceeded the most dangerous period, the truth is usually different. IVF pregnancies, which are thoroughly monitored, are not completely safe from complications. Actually, some factors underlying the case—like maternal age, embryo quality, uterine anomalies, and hormonal imbalance—can still lead to miscarriage despite a successful embryo transfer.What Causes Miscarriage After IVF?Miscarriages after IVF are generally not an indication of treatment failure but usually result from natural biological and physiological problems. Chromosomal abnormalities are one of the most frequent reasons for miscarriage irrespective of how pregnancy is achieved. "An embryo with the incorrect number of chromosomes is unlikely to survive," says Dr. Patil, pointing to the biological problem that can sideline even the best-planned IVF pregnancy. In addition to this, maternal health is also crucial—chronic diseases like uncontrolled diabetes, thyroid disturbances, kidney illness, and autoimmune diseases can disrupt a normal pregnancy and predispose to loss. Lifestyle factors are also very important.Cigarette smoking, alcohol use, illicit drug use, and even overuse of caffeine are all recognized risk factors for miscarriage. Dr. Patil reiterates that having IVF doesn't erase the need to make healthier lifestyle changes. Physical conditions like fibroids, polyps, a uterine septum, or an incompetent cervix can make it difficult to carry a pregnancy to term. Advanced age is another significant factor; women above 35 have a 25% or more chance of miscarriage, and for women aged above 40, this chance increases to more than 50%. In addition, serious anemia, malnutrition, and inadequate post-embryo transfer medical follow-up can adversely affect pregnancy and hence require holistic post-IVF care to ensure a successful process.How Age Can Affect Chances Of Miscarriage After IVF?Although age is a natural component of reproductive aging, it plays an extensive role in the success of IVF. Dr. Patil clarifies, "Between 20 and 35, the rate of miscarriage is 10–15%. But post 35, the rate increases significantly." This is partly because eggs from women who are older have a greater chance of chromosomal abnormalities.For individuals who are thinking about IVF later in life, this information underscores the value of genetic screening and preconception counseling to get the healthiest embryos to transfer.Role of Embryo QualityEmbryo quality is critical to the success of IVF—and to eliminating the risk of miscarriage. As Dr. Patil puts it, "A good quality embryo has a much lower risk of miscarriage than a poor quality one."Chromosomal information clarifies the different rates of miscarriage associated with the quality of the embryo.Research indicates that high-quality embryos suffer a miscarriage rate of about 13.3%, but low-quality embryos can suffer a much higher percentage, about 20%. This is where sophisticated reproductive procedures such as Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidies (PGTA) are utilized. PGTA allows physicians to detect chromosomally normal (euploid) embryos prior to implantation, significantly enhancing the likelihood of a successful pregnancy while minimizing the risk of miscarriage. For couples who have gone through the devastation of miscarriage following IVF, the path ahead seems uncertain.How long, then, should one wait before attempting another pregnancy? In Dr. Patil's opinion, a waiting time of 2 to 3 months is what is usually advised. This window of time accommodates both emotional recovery and physical healing," she explains. It also allows fertility doctors to assess any underlying complications, fine-tune medication regimens, and perform any further medical procedures that are required. Sparing this time not only gets the body ready for another cycle, but it also enables couples to rejoin the process with fresh hope and knowledge-based support. Signs of Miscarriage Women Should Watch ForPregnancies that occur through IVF are normally closely monitored, but it's still important for women to remain vigilant for complications. Dr. Patil enumerates the following signs that may be a sign of miscarriage:Spotting or brownish dischargeModerate to heavy vaginal bleedingAbdominal cramps or lower back painSudden loss of pregnancy symptoms (such as nausea or breast tenderness)Fluid or tissue passing from the vaginaLack of fetal heartbeat or growth on ultrasoundIf any of these symptoms are noticed, immediate medical consultation is essential. "The sooner we take action, the greater opportunity we have to offer support or handle complications," she maintains.A miscarriage, be it following natural conception or IVF, is not merely a medical occurrence—though an emotional one. Dr. Patil forbids couples to blame themselves. "It's a natural aspect of the reproductive cycle, frequently as a result of factors nobody has control over."Support systems, counseling, and community groups may assist couples in dealing with sorrow in a positive way while remaining positive about the future. Significantly, a single miscarriage does not predict the next pregnancy to end similarly. With updated technologies, individualized fertility care, and psychological strength, numerous couples proceed to have healthy pregnancies following miscarriage.Whereas IVF provides access to parenthood for millions worldwide, it's also important to note that it does not entirely eliminate the threat of miscarriage. Elements such as age, the quality of the embryo, maternal health, and lifestyle all remain crucial in determining the success.What is still crucial, as Dr. Patil stresses, is educated optimism. "Couples must know about the risks but not be discouraged by them. With proper medical attention, emotional support, and healthy lifestyles, the journey to parenthood continues to hold hope."Dr Varsha Patil is a Fertility specialist at GarbhaGudi IVF Centre, Bengaluru in India

what are the chances of having a miscarriage after ivf success? expert explains

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