Pregnancy is often described as one of the most beautiful journeys in a woman’s life. From the baby bump to the first heartbeat, every moment carries a mix of emotions. But for many, this journey can unexpectedly turn into a nightmare. Miscarriages, though rarely talked about openly, are more common than we realise and emotionally devastating for those who experience them.
Actor Gauahar Khan recently got candid about her own painful experience of miscarriage, before she became a mother to her son, Zehaan. Speaking on the first episode of her new YouTube podcast, MaaaNoranjan, Gauahar opened up about the emotional journey she went through before her first successful pregnancy. “There’s one thing I never told everyone. I did have a miscarriage before Zehaan. What should I tell you about that feeling? It’s impossible to describe. It was a pregnancy, I lost the baby after almost 9 weeks. That loss was extremely difficult,” she said in that episode.
The actor, who welcomed her first child with husband Zaid Darbar in 2023, is now expecting her second baby. The couple shared the news with a heartfelt video captioned: “Bismillah!! Need your prayers and love. Make the world dance by spreading love. #GazaBaby2.”
Gauahar’s revelation has opened up an important conversation about miscarriage. But what exactly is a miscarriage, why does it happen, and can it be prevented? Expert weighs in.
What is a miscarriage?
A miscarriage, or spontaneous abortion, refers to the loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week. According to a study published in The Lancet in 2021, about 1 in 4 recognised pregnancies end in miscarriage, making it more common than most people realise.
Most miscarriages occur in the first trimester, often due to chromosomal abnormalities in the developing fetus. But other factors like hormonal imbalances, lifestyle issues, infections, and underlying health conditions can also contribute.
We got in touch with Dr Gandhali Deorukhkar, Consultant – Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Wockhardt Hospitals Mumbai Central who explains that while not all miscarriages can be prevented, proactive prenatal care plays a critical role in reducing risks. Starting folic acid at least three months before conception has been shown to decrease neural tube defects and support fetal development.
“Women should get screened for hormonal imbalances, infections, and uterine abnormalities—especially if they’ve experienced prior losses. Regular ultrasounds and blood tests in the early weeks can help monitor the viability of the pregnancy,” she said.
Signs and symptoms of miscarriage
Miscarriage symptoms can vary, but common signs include:
- Vaginal bleeding or spotting.
- Cramping or pain in the lower abdomen.
- Fluid or tissue passing from the vagina.
- Sudden loss of pregnancy symptoms like nausea or breast tenderness.
While spotting in early pregnancy is not always a cause for alarm, persistent bleeding, especially when accompanied by cramping, should get immediate medical attention.
How to cope from a miscarriage?
What’s often less discussed is the emotional toll a miscarriage can take. As Gauahar described, the pain is not just physical—it’s deeply emotional and lasting. “Emotional support is equally important,” says Dr. Deorukhkar. “Stress and anxiety can impact hormonal balance. If a miscarriage does occur, remember that many women go on to have healthy pregnancies in the future with the right medical guidance,” she further added. The stigma around miscarriage often leaves women feeling isolated.
Precautions to reduce the risk of miscarriage
While some causes of miscarriage are unavoidable, there are steps women can take to reduce the risk:
- Prenatal vitamins: Taking prenatal vitamins, especially folic acid, is one of the simplest yet most impactful things a woman can do before and during pregnancy. Folic acid helps in the early development of the baby’s brain and spinal cord, significantly reducing the risk of neural tube defects.
- Healthy lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle creates a nourishing environment for both mother and baby. This includes eating a balanced, nutrient-rich diet filled with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein. Gentle physical activity, like walking or prenatal yoga, can help with blood circulation and stress relief. Saying no to alcohol, smoking, and recreational drugs is critical for protecting the developing fetus.
- Medical check-ups: Early and regular prenatal check-ups are essential for tracking the progress of the pregnancy and catching any potential issues before they become serious. These visits usually involve ultrasounds, blood tests, and routine screenings that help ensure both mother and baby are doing well.
- Managing chronic conditions: If you have a chronic health condition like diabetes, thyroid disorders, or hypertension, it’s important to take extra precautions even before conception. These conditions can increase the risk of pregnancy complications, but with proper medical care, and lifestyle changes, many women go on to have perfectly healthy pregnancies.
- Emotional well-being: Pregnancy and miscarriage can both be emotionally intense experiences. It’s completely normal to feel anxious, overwhelmed, or even depressed at times. That’s why emotional support should never be overlooked. Talking to a mental health professional, joining a support group, or simply opening up to trusted friends and family can help ease the emotional burden.
