What happens when a surrogate miscarries?
A surrogate pregnancy is a unique arrangement where a woman carries and gives birth to a baby for another person or couple. Surrogacy can be a rewarding experience for all parties involved, but it also carries certain risks and challenges. One potential complication of surrogacy is miscarriage, which can be a difficult and emotional experience for the intended parents, the surrogate, and other family members. In this article, we will discuss what happens when a surrogate miscarries and how the situation is typically handled.
What is a surrogate miscarriage?
A surrogate miscarriage is when a surrogate loses the baby she is carrying during the pregnancy. This can happen at any point in the pregnancy, but it is most common during the first trimester. A surrogate miscarriage is similar to a typical miscarriage, but it can be more complex because of the unique legal and emotional issues involved in surrogacy. The intended parents and the surrogate will need to work together to navigate the situation and make decisions about what comes next.
How common are surrogate miscarriages?
The exact rate of surrogate miscarriages is not well-studied, but it is thought to be similar to the rate of miscarriages among women who are carrying their own baby. The American Pregnancy Association estimates that about 10-25% of all pregnancies end in miscarriage, with the majority occurring during the first trimester. Surrogate pregnancies may be slightly more likely to end in miscarriage due to the use of assisted reproductive technologies, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), which can increase the risk of complications.
What causes a surrogate miscarriage?
The causes of a surrogate miscarriage are similar to the causes of a typical miscarriage. In most cases, the miscarriage is caused by chromosomal abnormalities in the developing fetus that make it impossible for the pregnancy to continue. Other possible causes of a surrogate miscarriage include infection, hormonal imbalances, or problems with the uterus or placenta. Surrogate miscarriages may also be more likely to occur if the surrogate has a medical condition that increases her risk of miscarriage, such as uncontrolled diabetes or certain autoimmune disorders.
What are the signs of a surrogate miscarriage?
The signs of a surrogate miscarriage are similar to the signs of a typical miscarriage. These may include vaginal bleeding, cramping, and pain in the abdomen. The surrogate may also experience other symptoms, such as fever, chills, nausea, or vomiting. It is important for the surrogate to contact her doctor if she experiences any of these symptoms, as prompt medical treatment may be necessary.
How is a surrogate miscarriage diagnosed?
A surrogate miscarriage is typically diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, blood tests, and imaging tests. The surrogate’s doctor may perform a pelvic exam to check for abnormalities in the uterus or cervix. Blood tests may be used to measure hormone levels and check for infection. Imaging tests, such as an ultrasound, may be used to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the miscarriage. In some cases, the doctor may recommend a surgical procedure to remove any remaining tissue from the uterus.
How is a surrogate miscarriage treated?
The treatment for a surrogate miscarriage will depend on the specific circumstances of the case. In some cases, the miscarriage may happen naturally and the surrogate may only need to rest and
