Understanding second trimester miscarriages : a comprehensive review

Abstract

Spontaneous miscarriage is the most common complication of pregnancy. Pregnancy loss is usually multifactorial and dependent on a wide variety of genetic and epigenetic risk factors affecting either the parents or the foetus including parental age, health status, lifestyle, chromosomal abnormalities and anatomical/physiological conditions. Foetal loss during the second trimester can present with a broad range of symptoms and can be more complicated than first trimester losses due to the increased risk of haemorrhage or infection. Management of second trimester miscarriage can be divided into expectant, medical, and/or surgical interventions alongside psychological support.