can travelling in bus cause miscarriage

If you are wondering why first trimester miscarriage may happen or what factors might influence it, be sure to read on. We turned to some experts to examine the signs and symptoms, the factors and risks that contribute to early pregnancy loss , as well as some of the myths surrounding miscarriages.

First trimester pregnancy loss—also referred to early pregnancy loss or spontaneous abortion—is generally defined as a nonviable intrauterine pregnancy. These types of losses, while discouraging, are fairly common occurrences in early pregnancy.

"First trimester pregnancy loss is defined as pregnancy loss up to 12 weeks and six days," explains Hongmei Meng, MD , an OB/GYN at Altos Oaks Medical Group at Stanford Medicine Children’s Health. "[It's also important to note] that miscarriage is nobody's fault."

As many as 26% of all pregnancies end in miscarriage while up to 10% of clinically-recognized pregnancies end in miscarriage. Meanwhile, experts estimate that 80% of early pregnancy loss occurs in the first trimester, with the risk of miscarriage decreasing after 12 weeks gestation .

Hongmei Meng, MD

Miscarriage is nobody's fault.

"First trimester miscarriage is common and you don't have to suffer in silence—you are not alone," says Maximilian Klein, MD , a board-certified OB/GYN practicing reproductive endocrinology for Boston IVF in the Syracuse location. "The silver lining is that the likelihood of being able to have a live birth is very very good. Within about a year or year and a half of trying, there is a 75% percent chance they will get pregnant and stay pregnant—and it almost always ends in live birth."

There are very few signs or symptoms of first trimester pregnancy loss. According to Dr. Klein, vaginal bleeding, pain, and pelvic cramping are the most common signs of an impending loss.

"Sometimes there are no symptoms at all," he adds. "The miscarriage might be found coincidentally at an appointment when you discover there is no heartbeat."

Although bleeding is the most common sign of miscarriage, it is important to remember that spotting and even a small amount of bleeding early in pregnancy can be common. It also does not necessarily mean that you will have a miscarriage.

Still, if you experience spotting or a small amount of bleeding in pregnancy , talk to your healthcare provider. If your bleeding is heavy or happens with pain, contact your provider right away.

Factors That Contribute to First Trimester Miscarriage

When it comes to understanding why first trimester miscarriages occur, it can be helpful to know what factors contribute to them. While most of the time, the exact cause of the miscarriage may never be known, researchers have identified some possible reasons. Here is what the science says about what may cause a first trimester miscarriage.

Chromosomal Abnormalities

Chromosomal abnormalities are the most common cause of early miscarriage, says Dr. Somani. In fact, research indicates that chromosomal abnormalities account for 50% to 70% of miscarriages in the first trimester, particularly those that are less than 10 weeks gestation .

"Any time there are too many or not enough chromosomes, there is a risk for miscarriage," Dr. Somani says.

For instance, when the embryo is missing a pair of chromosomes (nullisomy) the embryo cannot develop in a healthy way and will likely result in a miscarriage. Likewise, when there is one chromosome missing (monosomy), the pregnancy will almost always result in a miscarriage.

Research suggests that preventable infections can account for up to 15% of early miscarriages. While it is not fully known how or why infections cause miscarriage, there are a number of infections that can contribute to first trimester miscarriage. Some examples include cytomegalovirus (CMV), mycoplasma, chlamydia, ureaplasma, listeria, or toxoplasmosis.

That said, it important to note that not all infections will lead to miscarriage, and, with effective treatment, the likelihood of a miscarriage can be significantly reduced. For this reason, pregnant people are often offered the TORCH panel test on their first pregnancy screening visit. (TORCH stands for toxoplasmosis, other agents, rubella, cytomegalovirus, and herpes.)

"The TORCH test screens for a group of infections that are likely to cause pregnancy complications, including miscarriage," says Dr. Klein.

Underlying Medical Conditions

The likelihood of a miscarriage is increased if an underlying health condition is undiagnosed or poorly managed, Dr. Klein says.

If you have any ongoing medical conditions like diabetes , high blood pressure , or an autoimmune disease, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider about your current treatment plan—including the use of medications—to see if it needs to be adjusted before you get pregnant.

"If a [pregnant person] has an underlying issue like autoimmune disease or diabetes, this increases the risk of miscarriage," Dr. Klein explains. "But once you get the underlying medical condition under control, you should be able to reduce to the baseline risk of miscarriage. However, even if you optimize what is going on [and the condition is managed], there is still a residual risk of miscarriage in any pregnancy."

Other Contributing Factors

• Hormone issues including low levels of progesterone or a thyroid problem
• Health conditions like lupus or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Problems inside the uterus such as scar tissue, an abnormal shape, or fibroids
• Injury or trauma
• Exposure to toxic substances and chemicals

Who Is at Risk for a First Trimester Miscarriage?

There also are some lifestyle factors that can increase the risk of miscarriage—though they are not necessarily the cause. In fact, according to the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists (ACOG) first trimester miscarriage is rarely the pregnant person's fault.

That said, some factors can increase the risk of miscarriage like substance abuse , smoking, excessive amounts of caffeine, trauma, and malnutrition.

Another factor that increases the risk of miscarriage is the pregnant person's age. For instance, in people 20 to 30 years old, the risk of miscarriage is 8.9%. But this risk increases to 74.7% for people over age 40.

Obstetrical history is another important predictor of early pregnancy loss. In fact, the risk of miscarriage increases to 28% after two consecutive miscarriages and 43% after three more consecutive miscarriages. But even though all of these factors increase the risk of miscarriage, experts indicate that there is no one predictor of future pregnancy loss.

"[It is important to] talk to your OB/GYN prior to conception to have preconception counseling," suggests Dr. Meng. Together, you can discuss your risk factors, underlying medical conditions, and your obstetrical history.

Myths About First Trimester Pregnancy Loss

When a pregnancy ends unexpectedly, it can not only be an overwhelming but it also can be easy to blame yourself. In fact, a national survey found that people who had experienced a miscarriage often felt that they had done something wrong.

Many times, these feelings are fueled by a number of myths surrounding miscarriage. Here are some common miscarriage myths that people often wrongly believe.

Myth: You Have to Wait to Get Pregnant After a Miscarriage

In most cases, it's safe to start trying to get pregnant again as soon as you feel physically and emotionally ready, says Dr. Somani. There is no medical reason that indicates that it is not safe to get pregnant right away.

"I tell patients they can try when they are emotionally ready, because physically they can be ready after one cycle," Dr. Somani says. "There is no data to support delaying conception. It really just depends on the person."

Myth: Multiple Miscarriages Mean You Are Infertile

First trimester pregnancy loss is usually a one-time event with most people going on to have successful pregnancies. In fact, recurrent miscarriages are rare and not necessarily a sign of fertility issues.

"Having recurrent miscarriages is not the same as infertility," says Dr. Somani. "It just might mean you are not able to carry the pregnancy."

If you have had multiple first trimester miscarriages, it might be helpful to see a reproductive endocrinologist to see if there is another cause for the miscarriages, Dr. Klein says. In some cases, there may be a structural issue in the uterus or an undiagnosed medical condition that is increasing the risk of miscarriage.

Anita Somani, MD

I like to tell people the silver lining is that you were able to get pregnant. We know a lot of things are working. We know they are able to get pregnant.

"[Recurrent miscarriages] have been well studied," he says. "Just 2% of pregnant [people] will experience two consecutive miscarriages—it is very rare to have multiple miscarriages in succession. After two miscarriages, that is when it really increases the likelihood of having a third."

For this reason, testing should be done when two miscarriages happen in a row, Dr. Klein adds, because there may be something that can be done to help. Even when no cause is found, though, most people go on to have successful pregnancies even after repeated miscarriages, he says.

"I like to tell people the silver lining is that you were able to get pregnant," Dr. Somani says. "We know a lot of things are working. We know they are able to get pregnant."

Myth: Stress Causes Miscarriage

Another common myth about miscarriage is that it can be caused by stress or even a heated argument. In one survey, 76% of respondents said that they believed that stress caused miscarriages and 64% said they thought lifting heavy objects could cause pregnancy loss.  

However, these activities—along with depression, exercise, sex, spicy food, or travel—have not been shown to cause miscarriage. Likewise, neither morning sickness nor having taken birth control pills before getting pregnant cause miscarriage. Most of the time, miscarriage is a random event.

A Word From Verywell

Having a miscarriage can be emotionally taxing and can cause you to wonder if you did something wrong. But it’s important to remember that miscarriage is usually a random event and not your fault. Almost always, the reason for the miscarriage is outside of your control.

If you are concerned about a first trimester miscarriage or if you have recently had a miscarriage, it is important to talk to your OB/GYN or healthcare provider about your concerns. They may recommend additional testing and provide suggestions on how to care for yourself emotionally and physically.

And most importantly, be kind to yourself. It is normal to feel anxious or stressed after a miscarriage, but the likelihood of you having a healthy pregnancy is high. If you are worried about your chances, talk to your healthcare provider.

National Library of Medicine. Miscarriage .

Taylor A. Extent of the problem .  BMJ . 2003;327(7412):434-436. doi: 10.1136/bmj.327.7412.434

American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Early pregnancy loss .

D'ippolito S, Di Simone N, Orteschi D, Pomponi MG, Genuardi M, Sisti LG, Castellani R, Rossi ED, Scambia G, Zollino M. The chromosome analysis of the miscarriage tissue. Miscarried embryo/fetal crown rump length (CRL) measurement: A practical use . PLoS One . 2017 Jun 12;12(6):e0178113. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0178113

Giakoumelou S, Wheelhouse N, Cuschieri K, Entrican G, Howie SE, Horne AW. The role of infection in miscarriage . Hum Reprod Update . 2016 Jan-Feb;22(1):116-33. doi:10.1093/humupd/dmv041

Stanford Medicine Children's Health. Overview of pregnancy loss .

Bardos J, Hercz D, Friedenthal J, Missmer SA, Williams Z. A national survey on public perceptions of miscarriage . Obstet Gynecol . 2015 Jun;125(6):1313-1320. doi:10.1097/AOG.0000000000000859

By Sherri Gordon Sherri Gordon, CLC is a published author, certified professional life coach, and bullying prevention expert. 

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Why little is known about what causes many pregnancies to end in miscarriage

Courtney Norris Courtney Norris

Rachel Liesendahl Rachel Liesendahl

Casey Kuhn Casey Kuhn

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Every year, about 1 million pregnancies in the U.S. end in a miscarriage. In as many as half those cases, doctors are at a loss to explain why, and experts say stigma and shame are hampering efforts to learn about what causes miscarriages. PBS News Hour’s Courtney Norris reports.

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Every year in the United States, about 1 million pregnancies end in a miscarriage, and in as many as half of those cases, doctors are at a loss to explain why they happened. Experts say stigma and shame are hampering efforts to learn more about what causes miscarriages, NewsHour Deputy Senior Producer Courtney Norris looked into this for a very personal reason.

Courtney Norris:

As many as one in four pregnancies in America will ended a miscarriage but we still know little about why I experienced this firsthand. When I miscarried earlier this year, doctors couldn't give me a reason. Experts say research on the issue is lagging.

Dr. Zev Williams, Columbia University:

It is by far the most common complication of pregnancy. Yet most people think it's very rare. And a big part of that is there is such a reluctance to even speak about it.

I turned to experts like Dr. Zev Williams with Columbia University's Irving Medical Center, and Dr. Diana Bianchi, the director of the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.

Dr. Diana Bianchi, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development: What's different about miscarriage is the guilt factor. You know, why couldn't I continue this pregnancy? In my former practice, people came up with all kinds of explanations why they lost the pregnancy, and probably none of them were true.

One problem and miscarriage research is the stigma that comes with the loss. Dr. Asima Ahmad is an OB/GYN who herself miscarried.

Dr. Asima Ahmad, OG/GYN:

All of us end up blaming ourselves. I did that myself and I am a specialist in this field. But most of the time, it's not your fault. It's not something you did. There are other reasons for pregnancy loss, but the majority are genetic and you will have control over it.

While most miscarriages occur due to chromosomal abnormalities. Little is known about other potential reasons.

Zev Williams:

There is still this black box area where pregnancy losses occur. And we don't know why those are happening. And that's a big area of investigation.

Part of the problem is the stigma around discussing pregnancy loss despite the fact that it's the most common pregnancy complication.

Diana Bianchi:

It's not something that people are willing to share. It's often kept as a family secret. In many cultures, it is particularly important for a woman to be fertile and any discussion of anything that doesn't result in a live born baby is not encouraged.

Another reason science is behind on miscarriages, she says is how hard it can be to connect with patients when they lose a pregnancy.

With a miscarriage, particularly in early miscarriage, it's quite difficult to collect the material to study. So oftentimes, the first indication that there's a miscarriage is there's bleeding, and one may not recognize that they're actually passing tissue.

Finally, it's difficult to get participants for clinical trials for new treatments.

There is a greater willingness to participate in studies, but a reluctance to be randomized to a placebo group to not receive treatment.

And so that I think is a very real limitation to the interventions that we send to sort of conducting the rent the rigorous randomized control trials that we ideally would like to perform.

While the science catches up. Dr. Ahmad says there are ways to support people who miscarry from friends checking in to employers giving time off after a pregnancy loss.

Asima Ahmad:

Even if it's really early on in pregnancy versus like it was a 25 week loss, it can still be hard for that person, so giving them that time to be with their family heal.

And one hopeful thing research does show many women who miscarry go on to have full term pregnancies.

For PBS News Weekend, I'm Courtney Norris.

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Courtney Norris is the deputy senior producer of national affairs for the NewsHour. She can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter @courtneyknorris

Rachel Liesendahl is an online production assistant at the PBS NewsHour.

Casey is a producer for NewsHour's digital video team. She has won several awards for her work in broadcast journalism, including a national Edward R. Murrow award.

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What Does and Doesn't Cause a Miscarriage

Can stress cause a miscarriage? What about sex, exercise, or certain foods? We spoke with experts about what causes a miscarriage—and what doesn't.

What Causes Miscarriage

The most common causes of miscarriage.

• What Doesn't Cause Miscarriage
• Is Miscarriage Ever the Pregnant Person's Fault?

People hear a lot of things about what does and does not cause miscarriages, and much of the information available is confusing at best and harmful at worst. In fact, it's estimated that as many as 26% of all pregnancies end in miscarriage with the likelihood increasing with advancing age.

"Much misinformation is shared among women or passed down from older generations," says Jonathan Schaffir, MD , an assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Ohio State University College of Medicine.

What research reveals are miscarriage risk factors , or things that are correlated with miscarriage and may increase a person's risk of experiencing one. Some common causes of miscarriage is through risk factors such as drug and alcohol abuse, genetic conditions, infections, uterine abnormalities, cervical abnormalities, and more. Here's what you should know about what causes a miscarriage—and what does not.

The majority of miscarriages, especially in the first trimester, are caused by chromosomal abnormalities in the developing embryo or fertilized egg, explains the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Beyond chromosomal abnormalities, there are other known causes of miscarriage.

Known Causes of Miscarriage

Known causes of miscarriage include:

• Chromosomal abnormalities
• Genetic factors
• Certain health conditions
• Hormonal disorders

Drug and alcohol use

• Uterine abnormalities
• Cervical abnormalities

Despite all that's known about what can cause miscarriage, there is still a lot that experts don't know. Even after a fertility evaluation for pregnancy loss, up to 50% of miscarriages are attributed to unknown causes.

Because the majority of people who conceive again after experiencing a miscarriage go on to have a healthy pregnancy, it's common to remain in the dark about what caused the miscarriage. Things may look a little different when you're dealing with recurrent miscarriage (two or more back-to-back pregnancy losses), at which point a health care provider may be more likely to recommend doing some testing to pinpoint a possible cause and determine the best course of action.

While it may be hard to pinpoint an exact reason behind a pregnancy loss, here's what experts do know about the most common causes of miscarriage and some of the factors that may increase a person's risk of having one.

Chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus

Research suggests that at least 50% of first-trimester miscarriages are caused by chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus.

"When the chromosomes of the egg and those of the sperm fuse to form an embryo, they usually pair up correctly," says Henry Lerner, MD, an OB-GYN at Newton-Wellesley Hospital in Newton, Massachusetts. "But sometimes they get scrambled; if they're paired incorrectly, the embryo stops developing."

Chromosomal abnormalities don't mean that anything's wrong with the parents or their genes , and because chromosomal abnormalities in embryos are often random, one-time events, they're unlikely to happen again.

Certain health conditions in the pregnant person

Certain health conditions can cause miscarriage, especially those that restrict blood flow to the uterus. Chronic conditions that are associated with a higher risk of miscarriage include hypertension, diabetes , thyroid disease, lupus, and heart disease.

Hormone-related disorders and autoimmune disorders like antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) have also been linked to miscarriage. Certain types of bacterial and viral infections like uterine infections and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can also play a role. Examples include:

• Fifth disease
• Rubella (German measles)
• Bacterial vaginosis

Problems with the uterus or cervix, such as fibroids and cervical insufficiency (when the cervix dilates too soon during pregnancy), can also lead to miscarriage.

Other health-related factors include certain medical procedures such as amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling (CVS), which carry a very small risk of miscarriage (one of the reasons why these procedures are reserved for cases where the benefits outweigh the risks).

Excess caffeine consumption

Caffeine is one drug that comes up a lot in the context of pregnancy. Let's be clear: One daily cup coffee during pregnancy is perfectly fine. It's when caffeine consumption gets higher that there may be a risk.

Much of the conversation about caffeine and miscarriage is based on a 2008 study that found that people who consumed 200 milligrams or more of caffeine a day had twice the miscarriage risk as those who didn't have any.

Since then, additional studies have demonstrated a connection between excessive caffeine consumption and miscarriage, but there isn't consensus about the nature and strength of the connection. The official stance of the ACOG is that it's safe for pregnant people to drink up to 200 mg of coffee per day, which is the amount of caffeine in about two 8-ounce cups of regular coffee.

While the research about caffeine and miscarriage risk is incomplete, the evidence is clear that drug and alcohol use can lead to miscarriage. "Exposing a fetus to large amounts of these chemicals on a regular basis can cause miscarriage because they have a poisonous effect on all those developing cells," says Dr. Schaffir. Substances that can lead to miscarriage include alcohol, illicit drugs, nicotine and tobacco products, and even certain prescription medications.

Researchers note that the risk of stillbirth is raised by 1.8 to 2.8 times with tobacco use, 2.3 times with marijuana use, 2.2 times with stimulants or prescription drug use, and even 2.1 times greater risk of miscarriage from passive exposure to tobacco.

Hot tubs and high body temperatures

Hot tub use during pregnancy may increase the risk of miscarriage, according to a 2003 study. In that study, the risk of miscarriage was doubled on average with early first-trimester hot tub use and increased further with greater frequency of use.

The problem with hot tubs, saunas, and hot baths isn't the devices themselves but rather the increase in body temperature associated with their use. Allowing your body temperature to get too high during pregnancy has also been linked with neural tube defects and is not recommended.

For those who desire to spend some time in a hot tub or hot bath , program your hot tub to a lower temperature, don't allow your body temperature to exceed 101 degrees F, and spend no longer than 10 minutes in the tub.

What Doesn't Cause Miscarriage

While we know what things can cause or increase the risk of miscarriage, there are still plenty of myths surrounding miscarriage. We asked Dr. Schaffir to debunk some major misconceptions about miscarriages.

"It's important for [people] to understand that these are just old wives' tales—and not only are they not true but in some cases, believing them can affect your health and well-being," he says. Here are four things that don't cause a miscarriage.

Moderate exercise

Exercising or picking up a (reasonably) heavy object—such as a grocery bag, a toddler, or the like—are extremely unlikely to cause a miscarriage. In fact, the ACOG notes that exercise during pregnancy, with your doctor's approval, can have benefits during pregnancy.

That's because exercise reduces stress, relieves aches and pains, lowers your risk of pregnancy-related conditions like gestational diabetes, gestational hypertension, and preeclampsia , improves your overall fitness, and even builds up stamina for labor. As long as you're continuing exercises that you did pre-pregnancy and not suddenly taking on Olympic weightlifting, exercise during pregnancy is perfectly safe.

While there are a couple of studies that have suggested an increased risk of miscarriage in people who had previously terminated a pregnancy , the evidence overwhelmingly indicates that elective abortion is safe and not linked to future pregnancy loss. In fact, a large study published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that elective medical abortion was not associated with any increased risk of subsequent miscarriage.

Any increased risk of future miscarriage appears to be limited to people who experienced post-surgery complications such as severe infection or uterine scarring after a surgical abortion via dilation and curettage (D&C). And there is no evidence that medical abortion, or an abortion using medications rather than surgery, is associated with future miscarriages.

Everyday stress

While some studies on stress and miscarriage are conflicting, Dr. Schaffir says that everyday tension or anxiety—such as tight deadlines at work or worrying about what labor will be like—have not been linked to pregnancy loss. What's more, no studies have ever linked excessive bad moods to miscarriage, Dr. Schaffir adds.

Things get murky when dealing with major stress, though. "We're talking big things, like the death of a spouse or parent," he explains, and even then, the link is not well established. Plus, pregnant people who are under extreme stress may be more likely to smoke, drink, or do drugs to cope—which can also affect their risk of miscarrying.

Food that's properly cooked

While foods themselves don't cause miscarriage, certain foods come with higher risks of food-borne illnesses like listeriosis (an infection caused by the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes ).

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) explains that cases of listeriosis and other food-borne illnesses have been linked to miscarriage and pregnancy complications, which is why experts recommend avoiding certain foods during pregnancy.

For instance, pregnant people should avoid raw meat and fish, unpasteurized cheeses, and deli meat, all of which carry a higher risk of food-borne illness. Not only are you more likely to develop food poisoning while pregnant , but some of the organisms that cause food poisoning are linked with an increased risk of miscarriage. These include:

• Toxoplasmosis

It's important to note that you don't have to avoid all cheese or deli meats during pregnancy.

In general, all kinds of sex and sex acts including the use of sex toys are considered safe during pregnancy. The fetus is protected not only by amniotic fluid but also by the powerful muscles of the uterine walls. As long as the pregnancy is low risk, the fetus is developing on a typical track, and there are no concerns about pre-term labor or other complications, sex during pregnancy is likely safe. If you're concerned, however, don't hesitate to ask a health care provider.

Sex is generally considered safe during all phases of pregnancy, but there are a few exceptions such as after your water has broken or if you are experiencing vaginal bleeding. Be sure to discuss any concerns with your provider.

Is Miscarriage Ever the Pregnant Person's Fault?

The vast majority of miscarriages occur because of chance chromosomal or genetic abnormalities in the embryo or fetus or, less commonly, hormonal imbalances or problems with the uterus or placenta, says Dr. Schaffir. These factors are nothing that a pregnant person has control over. It's natural for people experiencing loss to try to explain it in some way, even if that means blaming themselves. "But all [people] need to know that most of the time, a miscarriage is completely random," he says.

Dr. Schaffir adds that if you eventually want to try again, odds are you will conceive and have a healthy pregnancy . Of course, that being said, if you have any concerns, have had two or more losses in a row, or are over the age of 35, it's always a good idea to speak with a doctor who can help you plan your next steps.

Key Takeaways

The majority of miscarriages are caused by chromosomal abnormalities, which cannot be predicted or prevented. Most people who have had a miscarriage are able to conceive again and have a healthy pregnancy. If you experience repeated miscarriages or have any underlying health conditions, it's best to speak to a doctor about making a plan for pregnancy.

Miscarriage . Stat Pearls . 2022.

Early Pregnancy Loss . The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. 2018.

Chromosomal instability in first trimester miscarriage: a common cause of pregnancy loss? . TP Translational Pediatrics . 2018.

Maternal caffeine consumption during pregnancy and the risk of miscarriage: a prospective cohort study . American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology . 2008.

Relationship between maternal caffeine and coffee intake and pregnancy loss: A grading of recommendations assessment, development, and evaluation-assessed, dose-response meta-analysis of observational studies . Frontiers in Nutrition . 2022.

How much coffee can I drink while I’m pregnant? ACOG . 2020

Association between stillbirth and illicit drug use and smoking during pregnancy . Obstetrics & Gynecology . 2014.

Exercise during pregnancy. ACOG . 2022.

  Medical abortion and the risk of subsequent adverse pregnancy outcomes .  N Engl J Med.  2007.

Nutrition C for FS and A. Listeria - food safety for moms to be.   FDA . 2024.

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Miscarriage: Why It Happens And How Best To Reduce Your Risks

A conversation with Dr. Henry Lerner

Q: How common are miscarriages? Do you see it a lot in your practice? A: Unfortunately miscarriages are extremely common.  They occur in one of every five pregnancies.  So although there are 4 million babies born in the United States each year, another one million couples undergo the emotional trauma of having a miscarriage. Having practiced obstetrics over the last 22 years I have seen thousands of couples go through miscarriages.  They occur so commonly, I generally see to 2 to 3 such couples a week.  No matter how sophisticated a woman and her partner may be, no matter how many healthy children they might already have, a miscarriage is always an extremely upsetting event. Q: Are there different types of miscarriages? A: Yes. The majority of miscarriages--60 percent or so--come about because of a miscombination of the chromosomes of the egg and sperm when they fuse at conception.  Four out of five times when the egg and sperm fuse a healthy embryo results.  One out of five times, however, the chromosomes of the egg and sperm don't combine correctly resulting in the embryo having abnormal chromosomes.

But there are other causes for miscarriage as well.  These range from abnormalities of a woman's reproductive organ--such as a uterus that has large fibroids--to hormonal inadequacy, infection, or harmful environmental influences. Q: Is it useful to try to detect the specific cause for every miscarriage? A: Since 60 percent of all miscarriages occur because of the accidental event of chromosomal miscombination, trying to find the "cause" of this random event will not help a couple avoid a similar outcome in a future pregnancy.  However, if there is some reason to suspect that another factor is at work--such as an anatomic, hormonal, environmental, infectious, or genetic abnormalit--then further testing is appropriate.  Such testing may enable a treatment to be found that can significantly increase the chances of the next pregnancy being successful. Since women who have had three or more miscarriages are more likely than others to have a specific, nonrandom cause for their miscarriages, it is worthwhile for such women to undergo a comprehensive evaluation.  By so doing, a treatable cause for these recurrent miscarriages can often be found. Q: Is there anything a woman can do during pregnancy to reduce her risk? A: First of all, she should take several steps to prepare for becoming pregnant.  This means getting medical problems attended to, having dental work done, and making sure immunizations are up to date. Second, she should make sure that while trying to get pregnant she is eating a healthy, well balanced diet and is getting some source of folic acid.  Taking a standard over-the-counter multivitamin tablet most easily does this.  Folic acid decreases the risk of spinal cord defects developing in the baby. Third, a woman trying to conceive should reduce the amount of alcohol she consumes and stop smoking.  She should of course stop the use of all recreational drugs and consult her doctor before taking any medications other than Tylenol or antacids. Fourth, all woman and their partners should inquire of family members about their genetic and family health histories.  In this way the possibility of any inheritable diseases can be uncovered and professional genetic counseling obtained if necessary. Fifth, while trying to get pregnant and during pregnancy it is important to make sure that the environment in which a woman lives and works does not contain any noxious substances that might be harmful to the pregnancy.    While there are many more factors that contribute to reduced risk for miscarriage and that are discussed in my book, these are the most important ones. Q: Will doctors ever find a way to prevent miscarriages? A: The answer to this question depends on what kind of miscarriages we are discussing.  As far as the spontaneous, common miscarriage that occurs randomly because of miscombination of the chromosomes of the egg and sperm, the answer is probably no. On the other hand, miscarriages caused by anatomic problems, hormonal inadequacy, medical illnesses, or environmental factors are certainly amenable to being reduced or eliminated. Q: What advice can you offer women who have suffered a miscarriage and are now scared about it happening in another pregnancy? A: Your fears and concerns are entirely normal and appropriate. However as you learn more about miscarriages you will come to understand that the vast majority of women who go through 1, 2, or even more miscarriages do eventually go on to have as many healthy children as they want.  My advice to you is to find out as much about miscarriages as possible, consult with your doctor as to whether or not further testing makes sense for you, and then move on with the assurance that your next pregnancy is overwhelmingly likely to be a normal one resulting in the birth of a healthy baby. Henry Lerner, M.D., OB/GYN is the author of Miscarriage: Why It Happens And How Best To Reduce Your Risks, and a graduate of Harvard Medical School. He has been an obstetrician/gynecologist for more than twenty years. He has appeared on "Nightline," "Larry King Live," and "Firing Line" and has been interviewed for magazines including Time and People. He lives in Newton, Massachusetts. Whether it occurs in the first trimester or later in a pregnancy, a miscarriage is always an emotionally traumatic event, sometimes a physically daunting one, and all too often an isolating experience. Adding to the frustration and disappointment of the 800,000 women who miscarry every year, busy obstetricians often lack up-to-date or specific knowledge about the causes and consequences of this profound event. Into this fact-vacuum comes Miscarriage, a book that every physician will confidently recommend and that women hungry for information will seek out. From the chromosomal, illness-related, immunological, and genetic reasons for miscarriage to the diagnostic tests and surgical procedures now available, this authoritative guide reflects the latest medical information on why miscarriages do and don't happen and the best methodologies known for recovery and preparing to conceive again. Complete with stories from women who have miscarried and reassuring input from a female doctor, Miscarriage also provides substantive advice for coping with the anxiety and depression that often accompany the loss of pregnancy.

Please check-out You've Had A Miscarriage - What Now? by Henry Lerner, M.D., OB/GYN author of "Miscarriage: Why It Happens And How Best To Reduce Your Risks"

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Home • Pregnancy • Safety

Is It Safe To Travel By Bus During Pregnancy?

Traveling in mid-pregnancy may be safe but talk to your doctor if you have complications.

Dr Anita Gupta is currently working in University College of Medical Sciences (Medical School) & Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Delhi. She has been practicing as a gynecologist & obstetrician for the past 31 years and as a lactation consultant for 18 years. Read full bio of Dr. Anita Gupta

Harshita is a graduate in commerce and holds a PG Diploma in Patent and Copyrights Law from NALSAR University. She has also pursued CA and has more than three years of internship experience in auditing. Her love for travelling has taken her to various parts of the world, and writing the travelogues was what brought out her love for content writing. Read full bio of Harshita Makvana

Rebecca is a pregnancy writer and editor with a passion for delivering research-based and engaging content in areas of fertility, pregnancy, birth, and post-pregnancy. She did her graduation in Biotechnology and Genetics from Loyola Academy, Osmania University and obtained a certification in ‘Nutrition and Lifestyle in Pregnancy’ from Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU). Read full bio of Rebecca Malachi

Aneesha holds a Bachelor's degree in Biotechnology from USTM, Meghalaya and Master’s degree in Applied Microbiology from VIT, Vellore. With two years of experience, she has worked on different research projects in the field of Food Sciences. Read full bio of Aneesha Amonz

MomJunction believes in providing reliable, research-backed information to you. As per our strong editorial policy requirements, we base our health articles on references (citations) taken from authority sites, international journals, and research studies. However, if you find any incongruencies, feel free to write to us .

Image: MomJunction Design Team

Traveling is an unavoidable aspect of our lives these days, whether for business, a doctor’s appointment, or a vacation. However, new mothers may be apprehensive about traveling long distances by public transportation. This post helps you prepare for such situations.

Read this post to learn whether it is safe to travel by bus during pregnancy, the risks associated with it, and some tips for safe bus travel during this time.

Is It Safe To Travel By Bus During Pregnancy? What Are The Risks Associated With It?

The best time to travel is mid-pregnancy (14 to 28 weeks). But travel may not be recommended for women who have pregnancy complications. If you are planning a trip, talk to your obstetrician-gynecologist (Ob-Gyn) to better understand travel restrictions if any. Get your check-up done before you leave for long-distance travel on a bus.

There are also a few risks involved with bus travel during pregnancy. Bus journeys are uncomfortable for some expectant moms.

1. If you are traveling a long distance or get stuck in a traffic jam, you cannot get up and move around often; this can put you at risk for blood clots ( 1 ) and varicose veins.

Image: Shutterstock

2. In case you are traveling on a vacation by bus, sleeping while sitting upright can be really uncomfortable. In fact, it can also lead to swelling in your legs.

3. The biggest worry in bus travel during pregnancy is the need to use the washroom, especially if you are traveling in an air conditioned bus.

4. During travel one gets thirsty more often, so you are likely to be drinking more water which can leave you wanting to run to the bathroom at the earliest.

5. Lack of a seat belt can also put you and your belly at risk of getting hurt, in case of sudden and hard braking or deep potholes on the road.

Tips For Safe Bus Travel During Pregnancy

Though traveling by bus during pregnancy has a few minor shortcomings, there are ways you can make your journey comfortable and relaxed.

1. Be Transparent: Traveling particularly during office hours can be quite a pain with buses being crowded and every one seeming to be in a hurry.

• Always inform the bus conductor or your co-passengers that you are pregnant so that you can save yourself from being pushed around.
• Also, if you are traveling a long journey out of the station, check the bus schedule in advance and plan accordingly. Informing the bus service about your pregnancy can help them facilitate a good seat with optimum air conditioning and extra support to make your journey less tiring and risky.

2. Keep ‘Em Handy: Pack your food, water, and medications in a handy manner when planning a long journey by bus. Carrying essential items handy can help ensure proper nutrition and hydration, vital for proper prenatal care ( 2 ). Avoid carrying oily items like chips that could aggravate nausea and stick to a lot of citrus fruits and drinks.

• Eat cautiously and at regular intervals as you will already feel full due to lack of activity. Also, stick to bottled water and avoid drinking water from unknown sources.
• Keep bags handy for motion sickness as buses will generally not stop at random locations. Wear supportive clothing and avoid heavy lifting while handling luggage.

3. Seating Choices: If you can request and get a comfortable seating option, it is ideal to take an aisle seat so that you can move out of your seat without crawling over with too much effort.

• Keep neck and back pillow handy particularly in case of overnight bus travels to avoid straining your body.
• Avoid front and back rows as they are riskier in case of a crash. If you get a chance and find two seats vacant do sit with your legs up to stretch your body.

4. Use The Stopovers: Every time the bus stops for breaks, take the opportunity to use the restroom facility. Also, consider walking or stretching a little to promote blood circulation and prevent the formation of blood clots ( 2 ).

• Sitting for too long can make your body stiff and stretching at breaks can help you relieve the stiffness.
• Do not go alone to restrooms or to stretch your legs. Seek the help of a fellow passenger, or go in a group.

5. Travel With A Companion: An important tip that goes without saying is to try and travel a long distance with someone and avoid traveling alone.

Image: IStock

• Keep your partner’s and doctor’s number on speed dial as emergency contacts so that you can contact them immediately in case of any emergency. Travel insurance is another important consideration while traveling during pregnancy.
• If you do decide to travel alone by bus, don’t get tense; take all necessary precautions and listen to some light soothing music to stay calm and relaxed.

Any travel plans must be undertaken with extra caution during pregnancy, especially during the first and third trimesters . During pregnancy, long-distance travel by bus can be uncomfortable and increases the risk of swelling in the legs, blood clots, and varicose veins. Since buses lack seat belts, sudden brakes can also put your bump at risk. However, if bus travel is unavoidable, opt for an aisle seat to move about more easily. Also, pick a seat in the middle rows since it may be less jerky. In addition, we recommend checking with your doctor before you travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can travel by bus lead to a miscarriage?

Pregnancy termination might depend on many factors and not just by traveling. Therefore, traveling by bus might not lead to a miscarriage. However, since there is an increased risk of miscarriages during the first trimester, your doctor might advise you to avoid traveling during that time ( 3 ).

2. Which mode of travel is safe during pregnancy?

The safety and comfort of travel during pregnancy might depend on your pregnancy and any complications. Generally, air travel is considered safe before 36 weeks of pregnancy, whereas car travel is considered safe throughout pregnancy ( 4 ). However, if you want to make travel plans, consulting with your doctor to know about the safest modes of transportation for you is advisable.

3. Is a long journey safe during pregnancy?

A long journey might not be advisable during pregnancy as it might cause exhaustion. However, consult your doctor to know the safe ways to travel if a long journey is unavoidable. Your doctor will advise you to take frequent rest stops throughout the journey and stretch your legs when you feel tired. Wearing compression stocking is a good option to improve blood circulation in the legs and reduce the risk of blood clots.

Infographic: Traveling By Bus During Pregnancy

Illustration: Momjunction Design Team

Key Pointers

• Inform the bus conductor and other passengers that you are pregnant to avoid being pushed.
• Bring a water bottle and snacks with you and avoid eating oily foods that can cause nausea.
• Consider bringing a friend or your partner with you for support during travel.
• Keep your doctor’s phone number handy in case of an emergency.
• When traveling overnight by bus, keep neck pillows nearby and avoid sitting in the front or back rows.

Image: Stable Diffusion/MomJunction Design Team

Embarking on a journey while expecting may seem overwhelming, but fear not! Stanford Children’s Health offers invaluable advice in this video to enhance your comfort and safety during pregnancy travels.

• Pregnancy and travel. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/pregnancy-and-travel
• Travel during pregnancy. https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/is-it-safe/travel-during-pregnancy/
• Travelling in pregnancy. https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/travelling/#
• Travel during pregnancy. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/travel-during-pregnancy
• Public transport in pregnancy. https://www.tommys.org/pregnancy-information/blogs-and-stories/im-pregnant/pregnancy-news-and-blogs/public-transport-pregnancy
• Fact-checker

Dr. Anita Gupta MS

Harshita makvana b.com, pg dip, rebecca malachi bsc, aneesha amonz msc, latest articles, chickenpox in babies: symptoms, causes and treatment, bottled water for babies: when can they drink it and how does it differ from baby water, is it safe to cut your hair while you're pregnant, pink eye in babies: signs, causes and treatment, airport security scanners and pregnancy: do they go along, 7 months pregnant: symptoms, body changes & baby development, is it safe to stand for long hours during pregnancy, iron-deficiency anemia in toddlers: what it is, how to prevent, tubal ligation: what it is, procedure, benefits and risks, 7 ways to deal with stomach flu during pregnancy, kissing a baby: possible risks and precautions to take, 10 general safety rules you should teach your children.

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Is it safe to fly during pregnancy?

Generally, air travel before 36 weeks of pregnancy is considered safe for people who aren't dealing with any pregnancy problems. Still, if you're pregnant, it's a good idea to talk with your health care provider before you fly.

Your provider might suggest that you not fly if you have certain pregnancy complications that could get worse because of air travel or that could require emergency care. Examples include a history of miscarriage or vaginal bleeding, severe anemia, and high blood pressure or diabetes that's not well controlled. If you had preeclampsia during a previous pregnancy — a condition that causes high blood pressure and extra protein in urine — flying may not be advised. The same is true if you're pregnant with twins or other multiples.

Tell your provider how far you are flying, as the length of the flight might make a difference. Also, be aware that some airlines may not allow pregnant people on international flights. Check with your airline before you make travel arrangements.

After 36 weeks of pregnancy, your health care provider may advise against flying. And some airlines don't allow pregnant people to fly after 36 weeks. The airline also may require a letter from your health care provider that states how far along in your pregnancy you are and whether flying is advised.

If your health care provider says it's okay for you to fly, and your plans are flexible, the best time to travel by air might be during the second trimester. The risks of common pregnancy emergencies are lowest during that time.

When you fly:

• Buckle up. During the trip, keep your seatbelt fastened when you are seated, and secure it under your belly.
• Drink plenty of fluids. Low humidity in the airplane could cause you to become dehydrated.
• Avoid gassy foods and drinks before you fly. Gases expand during flight, and that could make you uncomfortable. Examples of foods and drinks to avoid include broccoli and carbonated soda.
• Think about medical care. Plan for how you'll get obstetric care during your trip if you need it. Bring copies of your medical information in case you need care while you're away.

Blood clots

Air travel can raise the risk for blood clots in the legs, a condition called venous thrombosis. The risk is higher for pregnant people. Moving your legs may help prevent this problem. Take a walk up and down the aisle every hour during the flight. If you must remain seated, flex and extend your ankles from time to time. In general, it's best to avoid tightfitting clothing, as that can hinder blood flow. Wearing compression stockings can help with blood circulation during a long flight.

Radiation exposure linked to air travel at high altitudes isn't thought to be a problem for most people who fly during pregnancy. But pilots, flight attendants and others who fly often might be exposed to a level of radiation that raises concerns during pregnancy. If you must fly frequently during your pregnancy, talk about it with your health care provider.

Mary Marnach, M.D.

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• Allergy medications during pregnancy
• AskMayoExpert. Health considerations for air travelers: Pregnancy considerations. Mayo Clinic; 2022.
• Air Travel During Pregnancy: ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 746. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2018/08/air-travel-during-pregnancy. Accessed Dec. 1, 2022.
• Ram S, et al. Air travel during pregnancy and the risk of venous thrombosis. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. 2022; doi:10.1016/j.ajogmf.2022.100751.

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Travelling by car while pregnant: 1 month, 2 months, 3 months, etc.

You’re pregnant but are still dreaming of a road trip with your family? You’re wondering whether it’s wise to take the road during your pregnancy? You’re worried about possible contraindications? These are all normal questions to ask as you head off to your chosen holiday destination. Little Guest has investigated to help you sort out what is true and what is not, and what precautions you should take before embarking on a road trip while your baby is still growing in your belly. Explanations month by month, advice and hotels adapted to your needs… follow the guide!

Let’s cut the suspense short, the car is not the best means of transport when you are pregnant. However, it is perfectly possible to take to the road if your pregnancy is going well . Although the concentration required for safe driving and the jolts caused by the journey can increase certain common inconveniences (fatigue, nausea, bloating, etc.), the car remains an appropriate means of transport when you are pregnant … at least until the third trimester of pregnancy. We’ll explain everything a little further down!

ANSWERS TO THE MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is it risky to drive while pregnant?

We might as well say it straight away, pregnancy specialists, gynaecologists, midwives, obstetricians and others are categorical: no scientific evidence has shown that a car journey can cause problems during pregnancy or lead to premature delivery. So, while driving does not seem to have any impact on possible complications, it is obviously advisable to take a few precautions before you hit the road:

• Make sure you place the lower strap of the seatbelt as low as possible, at the level of the upper thighs, under the abdomen , to avoid unnecessary pressure, and the upper strap, as usual, between the breasts.
• Move your seat as far back as possible to stretch your legs comfortably, adjust the steering wheel to keep it as far away from your stomach as possible, and provide a cushion to support your back (or even a pillow for your neck) during the journey.
• Avoid rapid acceleration, hard braking and poor road conditions as much as possible to minimise jolting and improper movement.
• Plan regular breaks (one every 1.5 hours or so) to stretch your legs, wear light, comfortable clothing that you feel comfortable in and hydrate as regularly as possible.
• Before leaving, do not hesitate to inform your doctor or gynaecologist of your plans in order to get his or her opinion. After your arrival, do not hesitate to take a whole day to rest .

Until what month of pregnancy can I travel by car?

Driving for hours to your holiday destination can make you tired. Sitting down is not at all comfortable and we all tend to strain our legs when we drive. Between this excessive strain on the leg muscles, the jolts caused by bumpy roads, and the stress of the journey in general, your uterus can be a bit of a mess . This can lead to increased contractions, which can be quite unpleasant in the long run.

The risk of spontaneous miscarriage is highest during the first trimester of pregnancy – about one in five pregnancies – and the inconveniences inherent in any pregnancy (nausea, fatigue, etc.) are most noticeable. Driving at this time may increase your discomfort and is therefore not recommended, even though your health is not at risk !

During the third trimester, and more particularly the last month and a half of pregnancy , the risk of premature delivery increases and the contractions become longer and more painful. It is therefore easy to understand that this is not the ideal time to take to the road either, especially as it would be a shame to find yourself on the motorway when your water breaks .

As you can see, the best time to travel by car is during the second trimester , more precisely between the 12 th and 26 th week of pregnancy. Nausea and fatigue will be a thing of the past and the risk of premature delivery will still be very low!

What documents should you not forget before setting off?

Everything is ready for the big departure but you are afraid to forget something important? No problem, Little Guest has put together a short list of essentials that you should definitely pack. Good to know : this list also works if you want to fly during your pregnancy or travel by train while pregnant .

• Your complete medical file containing your latest ultrasound and blood tests and your blood group card .
• A medical certificate attesting to your pregnancy, your health insurance card and, if necessary, your European health insurance card (this could be very useful in the event of an unexpected visit or delivery within the European Union or in Switzerland).
• Your vaccination booklet .
• A first-aid kit containing everything that can be used during pregnancy: antispasmodics in case of contractions, iron to prevent anaemia, anti-acid medicine to avoid acid reflux, anti-diarrhoea medicine, paracetamol for headaches and a thermometer.
• Also remember to write down the number of your GP and/or gynaecologist so that you have it to hand in case of need.

Don’t forget that self-medication is strongly discouraged during pregnancy , so if you hesitate to take any medication, contact your GP! Finally, find out about the medical facilities near your holiday destination (emergency room, obstetrics service, nearest doctor, etc.), this will avoid stress and allow you to enjoy your stay in peace.

INFORMATION AND ADVICE ACCORDING TO YOUR MONTH OF PREGNANCY

Travelling by car when you are 1 month pregnant

This is it; a magnificent adventure is starting and it will last 9 months; 9 months during which your life will be made up of small joys, great fears and, above all, many surprises. For the moment, nothing really changes, neither physically nor psychologically. You may experience some morning sickness , but this is completely normal and does not pose any risk. You can therefore travel without question because it is not dangerous for your baby’s development.

Travelling by car when you are 2 months pregnant

From the second month of pregnancy, you enter an important period; the first organs of your embryo start to form . At the same time, the embryo begins its journey and settles on the endometrium (the lining of the womb). This is a time that can affect your behaviour as the pregnancy hormones double every day! It is therefore quite normal, for example, for you to feel tired or irritated. Nausea, acid reflux and heartburn increase and it is likely that mood swings have started to appear. The risk of miscarriage is still high but you can travel by car if you take the necessary precautions.

Travelling by car when you are 3 months pregnant

The third month of pregnancy is the time of the first ultrasound! The little embryo officially becomes a foetus and the risk of miscarriage decreases considerably . On the other hand, nausea and vomiting, as well as the urge to urinate, may intensify. This is because your uterus is growing and putting constant pressure on your bladder. Car journeys can therefore be quite difficult , so allow plenty of time to take as many breaks as you need. Also, note that the third month of pregnancy lends itself perfectly to various types of prenatal massage that may help you relax and enjoy this joyous time!

Travelling by car when you are 4 months pregnant

You are now in your 4 th month of pregnancy and your belly is slowly starting to round out to make room for your growing baby. Normally, the nausea has disappeared and you have left the fatigue behind you! You’re in great shape and that’s good! Why not celebrate with a few days of holiday , away from the daily grind? It’s the ideal time to take a breath of fresh air and prepare yourself for the rest of your pregnancy! A few precautions, however: hydrate regularly and take regular breaks to stretch your legs and regulate your blood circulation .

Travelling by car when you are 5 months pregnant

The 5 th month of pregnancy has arrived and your baby is now ready to be heard, or rather, understood! Kicking, punching… he never stops reminding you of his presence in your now well-rounded belly ! Fortunately for you, his movements tire him out and he rests most of the day (between 18 and 20 hours a day). The problem is that you don’t have the same rhythm as he does and this restlessness can lead to great fatigue. Even if you love driving, consider leaving the wheel to someone else , at least from time to time, so that you can rest on the passenger side. Don’t hesitate to take naps and sleep whenever you can, as your baby’s health obviously depends on yours.

Travelling by car when you are 6 months pregnant

Your belly is getting bigger and bigger and you are suffering from temporary hot flashes and unusual sweating? It’s normal, the 6 th month of pregnancy is the time when your body adapts to the growing foetus and this can cause many hormonal changes . In everyday life, and especially when driving, remember to hydrate regularly and wear loose, light clothing that will give you maximum freedom of movement and comfort. During the journey, remember to take breaks more regularly than before. Take the opportunity to hydrate, eat a small snack and take a few steps to avoid the feeling of heavy legs and to promote blood circulation.

Travelling by car when you are 7 months pregnant

Here you are in your 7 th month of pregnancy, you’ve come a long way! Even though childbirth is starting to settle in a corner of your mind, there is nothing to stop you from continuing to travel ! Indeed, even though your baby is becoming more and more sensitive to what is happening around him, he is completely safe. Are you, on the other hand, beginning to be a little embarrassed by the size of your belly and fearing shocks? This is normal and it may be time for you to let someone else drive for good ; an opportunity for you to sit back and enjoy the scenery. As with all forms of transport, remember to fasten your seatbelt under your abdomen to avoid any risk of impact. As in previous months, remember to walk as regularly as possible to keep your legs, ankles, feet and toes working.

Travelling by car when you are 8 months pregnant

This is it, you’re almost there! You’re getting close to giving birth , and it could well be premature from the beginning of the 8 th month. To find out whether you are fit to travel during the 8 th and 9 th months, whether by plane, train or car (over long distances), ask your doctor or midwife who has been following you since the beginning of your pregnancy for advice. If it is advisable to avoid travelling during this period , you are the only one to decide and you have every right to do so! As labour can start at any time during the last few weeks, we recommend that you limit your travel to short trips that allow you to get home or to the hospital easily.

3 LUXURY HOTELS EASILY ACCESSIBLE BY CAR FOR (FUTURE) MOTHERS

Le Chabichou ***** – Savoie, France

A true luxury cocoon nestled in the heart of Courchevel, Le Chabichou ***** is absolutely perfect for expectant mothers looking for peace and relaxation. Easily accessible by car, it guarantees direct access to the Trois-Vallées ski area and offers sumptuous views of the surrounding mountains.

This charming chalet, opened in 1963 and completely renovated in 2019, is equally suitable for summer and winter holidays. With a superb spa , a double Michelin-starred restaurant and kids’ clubs for young children and teenagers, the Chabichou is ideal for an enchanted break in the mountains.

Dolce la Hulpe **** – Walloon Brabant, Belgium

Head to Belgium to discover an intimate address in the heart of the flat country. Head for Walloon Brabant to discover the Dolce la Hulpe **** . This hotel curled up in luxurious nature, at the edge of UNESCO-registered Fôret de Soignes, offers its guests a successful marriage of luxury, comfort and authenticity. Nestled only 29 km from Brussels , this hotel is easily accessible by car!

Country walks and gastronomic dining experience are on the menu, but its mostly its Spa Cinq Mondes that catches the highlights. Its wide range of cares, including massages and Japanese, Balinese and Indians rituals, is ideal for smooth pregnancy treatments. Its heated pool, its sauna and its hammam complete the offer of this elegant and fully-equipped resort. The Dolce la Hulpe is the ideal place to enjoy the Belgian countryside and live your pregnancy in peace.

Hôtel Chais Monnet & Spa ***** – Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France

The Hôtel Chais Monnet & Spa ***** promises the most relaxing stay in Western France . Stretch your legs and get pampered as much as you want in this high-end wellness-oriented resort . Manicures, special treatment cares or sauna will relax you from the fatigue of the trip so you can drown in a soothing and voluptuous feeling. The bucolic setting of the town of Cognac suits perfectly for a more laid-back rythm of life made of walks along the Charente river , visits to la Rochelle and Rochefort or idleness on the pool’s sunbeds .

Indeed, at Little Guest we know that pregnancy can sometimes be quite tiring and that is exactly why this hotel is ideal for pregnant women. Sometimes, nothing better than to cut from daily stress to fill the tank of harmony in these constantly-evolving moments. The Hôtel Chais Monnet & Spa ***** is easily accessible by car and boasts with amazing activities both for those expecting a happy event as well as children, on the verge of endless fun at the resort’s kids-club .

A FEW MORE TIPS

• To help you prepare for your trip, consider our article specially designed for family car travel .
• And when baby arrives, how will you find the perfect hotel? The answer is obvious! Here you will find a selection of cities and hotels that are particularly suitable for the first holiday with a baby .

Little Guest wishes you a pleasant pregnancy and an unforgettable holiday!

Guillaume , 27 years old, travel enthusiast, from Paris

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Flying in first trimester after recent miscarriage?

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Planning visitors during hospital stay, you’re pregnant how these moms reacted, help keep our community safe, to create a safe place, please, on our end, we will.

What Experts Want You To Know About Flying In The 1st Trimester

When it comes to air travel, there are unspoken rules — especially when you have kids. Hi, man in row 23. I feel your stare. Flying etiquette looks different for everyone — some people say live and let live, while others start huffing and puffing the moment someone’s arm hair brushes theirs. But what about when you are newly pregnant? Navigating the early weeks of pregnancy comes with a lot of questions, let alone doing it while aboard the friendly skies. Like, can flying during the first trimester cause a miscarriage ?

“Travel during the first trimester is safe, but women should be aware that the overall risk of miscarriage is greatest during the first trimester, so if she happens to miscarry, she may blame it on air travel,” Dr. Rebecca C. Brightman, a NYC-based OB-GYN and assistant clinical professor at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, tells Romper in an email interview.

Dr. Salli Tazuke , the co-founder and co-medical director of Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine in San Francisco explains the roots of the concern, pointing at speculation over whether or not flying can cause miscarriage due to lower oxygen tension or exposure to atmospheric radiation . But she says, while there is some limited observation that flight attendants have slightly higher miscarriage rates, this has not been confirmed.

“If your pregnancy is straightforward, then flying is not thought to be harmful for you or your baby,” she says.

Tazuke says there are a few precautions pregnant women should take when flying , however, including hydrating properly (dehydration can cause cramping) and moving around on the plane to avoid deep vein thrombosis.

Once a heartbeat is seen on ultrasound at about six or seven weeks, Brightman says “ the risk of miscarriage does decline significantly , making travel less anxiety provoking.” She does caution, however, that women who are considered a high-risk for miscarriage or who have had a history of miscarriage, may want to put off first trimester travel plans until they receive the "go ahead" from their healthcare provider.

Now when it comes to the last month of pregnancy, it's a different story, says Dr. Allison Hill, OB-GYN and co-author of The Mommy Docs’ Ultimate Guide to Pregnancy and Birth.

"Most airlines won’t let you travel in the last month of pregnancy, but that’s just because they don’t want people going into labor on the airplane," she says. "Being at altitude in a pressurized cabin is not dangerous in itself."

Of course, if you are flying with me, then the rules are simple — I get the window seat.

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Flying when pregnant: what you need to know

Read time 6 minutes

If you’re feeling unsure about whether you can hop on that plane when you’re expecting, here’s the info.

Can I fly at one, two or three months pregnant (first trimester)?

Yes, there is no evidence that flying causes miscarriage (RCOG, 2015) . Yet as this is the riskiest time for miscarriage , just be aware that no medical help will be available if that does happen. You also might feel nauseous and exhausted, so that’s something to think about too.

Can I fly at four, five or six months pregnant (second trimester)?

Good news if you’re thinking of going away in the second trimester: it’s considered the safest time to fly (Hezelgrave et al, 2011) . That’s mainly because the risk of pregnancy-related complications, including miscarriage, is lower during the second trimester than in the first and third (Hezelgrave et al, 2011) .

Can I fly at seven, eight or nine months pregnant (third trimester)?

It’s fine to fly in the third trimester but you’re advised to do it before 37 weeks, or before 32 weeks in an uncomplicated twin pregnancy . That’s because you could go into labour any time after those dates (RCOG, 2015) .

Do still check with your specific airline before you fly though. Many airlines have restrictions on travel in advanced pregnancy (Hezelgrave et al, 2011) .

Flying when pregnant: the worries and concerns

First of all, you should know that flying is not considered harmful to you or your baby if you’re having a straightforward pregnancy.

You might feel a bit uncomfortable flying at certain stages of pregnancy. For example, you might have swollen legs, pregnancy sickness , nasal congestion (more common during pregnancy) or ear problems during pressure changes due to this congestion (RCOG, 2015) .

A change in air pressure or a decrease in humidity won’t cause your baby any harm. There is also no evidence to suggest that flying causes miscarriages, early labour or waters to break (RCOG, 2015) . If you have any health issues or pregnancy complications, discuss it with your GP or midwife before you decide to fly. They might advise you not to fly if you have:

• severe anaemia
• sickle cell disease
• significant vaginal bleeding
• a serious heart or lung condition that makes it difficult to breathe
• increased risk of going into labour before the due date
• increased chance of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy  (request an ultrasound before flying)
• previous history of ectopic pregnancy, pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility and documented tubal pathology.

(Hezelgrave et al, 2011; RCOG, 2015)

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) when pregnant and flying

A DVT  is a blood clot that develops in a deep vein in your leg or pelvis. It’s dangerous if a DVT travels to your lungs and causes a pulmonary embolism.

The risk of DVT increases when you’re flying and with longer flights because you are sitting down for a long time. You’re also at a higher risk of developing a DVT when you are pregnant and for up to six weeks after you give birth (RCOG, 2015) . Risk factors like a previous history of DVT and a high BMI can further increase your chance of developing a DVT.

Your doctor or midwife will be able to check your risk of developing DVT and advise you about flying.

How to reduce your risk of DVT

You can reduce your risk of DVT by:

• wearing loose clothing and comfy shoes
• getting an aisle seat and going for regular walks around the plane
• doing in-seat exercises every 30 minutes (ask your GP about how to do these)
• drinking plenty of water
• avoiding drinks containing alcohol and caffeine
• wearing graduated elastic compression stockings to help reduce leg swelling.

(RCOG, 2015; NHS Choices, 2016)

Flying when pregnant: general tips

• Take your hand-held pregnancy notes.
• Carry any medication in your hand luggage.
• Carry any documents confirming your due date and (if needed) that you are fit to travel. If you are 28 weeks pregnant or more, the airline you are travelling with might ask for a letter from your midwife or doctor stating your due date, that you’re in good health, have no complications and have a straightforward pregnancy.
• Carry your travel insurance documents with you too or make sure you have access to them if they’re on email.
• Carry your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) with you if you are travelling to Europe. You can apply online for one for free .
• Seatbelt wise, it’s recommended that you strap your seatbelt reasonably tightly across the top of your thighs and then under your bump. If you need a seatbelt extension, ask cabin crew.

Travel vaccinations when pregnant – are they safe?

There’s no evidence of risk from vaccinations that contain inactivated virus, bacterial vaccines or toxoids when you’re pregnant (CDC, 2017) . However, avoid live vaccines like yellow fever because of the risk of contracting a disease that might harm your developing baby (Hezelgrave et al, 2011) .

If you need advice on specific travel vaccinations, contact your doctor or midwife. Some anti-malarial tablets are not safe to be taken during pregnancy, so consult your GP or midwife about those too (NHS Choices, 2016) .

This page was last reviewed in May 2018.

Further information

Our support line offers practical and emotional support with feeding your baby and general enquiries for parents, members and volunteers: 0300 330 0700.

We also offer antenatal courses which are a great way to find out more about birth, labour and life with a new baby.

CDC. (2017) Guidelines for vaccinating pregnant women. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pregnancy/hcp/guidelines.html [Accessed 11th May 2018]

Hezelgrave NL, Shennan AH, Chappell LC. (2011) Advising on travel during pregnancy. BMJ.342. Available from: https://www.bmj.com/content/342/bmj.d2506.long [Accessed 11th May 2018]

NHS Choices. (2016) Travelling in pregnancy. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/travel-pregnant/#car-travel-in-pregnancy [Accessed 11th May 2018]

RCOG. (2015) Air travel and pregnancy. Available from: https://www.rcog.org.uk/globalassets/documents/patients/patient-information-leaflets/pregnancy/air-travel-pregnancy.pdf [Accessed 11th May 2018]

Rodger MA, Walker M, Wells PS. (2003) Diagnosis and treatment of venous thromboembolism in pregnancy. Best Pract Res Clin Haematol. 16:279-296. Available from:  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12763492 [Accessed 11th May 2018]

Information you can trust from NCT

When it comes to content, our aim is simple: every parent should have access to information they can trust.

All of our articles have been thoroughly researched and are based on the latest evidence from reputable and robust sources. We create our articles with NCT antenatal teachers, postnatal leaders and breastfeeding counsellors, as well as academics and representatives from relevant organisations and charities.

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Miscarriage and questions of fitness to fly

Medical matters: the issue of when it is safe to travel by air when pregnant was brought into sharp focus last week when the….

MEDICAL MATTERS: THE ISSUE of when it is safe to travel by air when pregnant was brought into sharp focus last week when the authorities planned to deport a Nigerian asylum seeker who had recently suffered a miscarriage.

Olayinka Ijaware, who was eight weeks pregnant when she miscarried, was taken to the Rotunda Hospital from Dublin airport when she complained of vaginal bleeding. She was discharged with a letter stating “the above named patient is unfit for air travel if she is actively bleeding per vagina”, and subsequently returned to Dublin airport when, for reasons that remain unclear, the flight was cancelled.

Would the Garda National Immigration Bureau have been correct if it had gone ahead and flown her back to Nigeria while she actively bled in the weeks following a miscarriage? In general, travel in pregnancy is “low risk”. But the risks do vary with the stage of pregnancy. The second trimester is considered the safest in which to travel.

A doctor assessing the fitness of a pregnant woman to fly will pay specific attention to blood-pressure readings and ultrasound findings. He will look for any acute symptoms or signs, such as vaginal bleeding or abdominal pain.

Whether the woman is at increased risk of premature labour, pre-eclampsia (a potentially dangerous rise in blood pressure) or of having a pre-delivery haemorrhage must also be assessed.

Does the expectant mother have pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes or asthma and if so are these likely to deteriorate during travel? And where is she travelling to? There is a big difference between arriving in a large western city with state-of-the-art obstetric facilities and medical expertise and heading into the bush or a jungle with nothing more than a first-aid box.

The risks of air travel during pregnancy include miscarriage, premature birth and deep-vein thrombosis. According to a review published in the British Medical Journal the miscarriage rate is 3-30 per cent for women who experience vaginal bleeding in the first trimester. There is no evidence to suggest air travel increases a woman’s risk of miscarriage; however, being airborne when a miscarriage occurs increases the difficulty of safely managing the situation. And there are studies showing female flight attendants have higher miscarriage rates than their peers.

In the latter stages of pregnancy, the main concern when flying is the risk of premature birth. It is often unpredictable, although women with a history of delivering prematurely and those expecting twins do have a statistically greater chance of premature labour. In recognition of this, most airlines will not permit a woman with a multiple pregnancy to fly after 32 weeks of gestation.

Deep-vein thrombosis is more common in pregnant women and is estimated to complicate about one in 1,000 pregnancies. Travel adds additional risk because of immobility, lower oxygen concentrations and low humidity, leading to more sluggish blood flow in veins.

While most exotic infectious diseases are uncommon, traveller’s diarrhoea is not: it affects up to 60 per cent of visitors to tropical and semi-tropical regions of the developing world. A bad dose can cause severe dehydration and may increase the risk of premature labour. And while oral hydration salts mixed with filtered water will settle the majority of cases, severe diarrhoea in a pregnant woman should hasten the use of intravenous fluids.

So where does that leave Olayinka Ijaware and the actions of the Garda? Probably the most important determinant of her fitness to fly was the nature, quantity and intensity of her vaginal bleeding. Bright red blood in copious amounts is a greater cause for concern than a trickle of older, brown-coloured blood. The decision of the Garda doctor who examined her and declared her fit to fly suggests she may have been experiencing a lighter form of bleeding, which may persist for weeks after miscarriage.

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Rough Riders: Here’s What to Know About Off-Roading Activities During Pregnancy

Now that summer is here; my inbox is simply flooded with messages from expecting mamas. All of you want to know what’s safe and what isn’t. In particular, I’ve heard from many of you who want to know about off-roading while pregnant.

Really bumpy roads while pregnant isn’t always ideal. However, hitting bumps while pregnant on the street you live on shouldn’t be a big concern. But what about off-roading while pregnant or riding an ATV while pregnant? I will cover all of this below so you can still get out there and have fun without harming that sweet baby growing inside you!

Are bumpy roads safe during pregnancy?

Let me start here with bumpy roads. Especially the bumpy roads that take you home. A newly pregnant and panicked mama named Jessie messaged me about the bumpy dirt road she lives on.

In rural areas, these kinds of roads surely are more common. But are they more dangerous for your baby?

Don’t worry! Bumpy roads and a bumpy car ride shouldn’t affect your baby as long as you drive slowly. If you happen to live on a dirt road with lots of bumps, just take it easy as you drive, and don’t plow over the terrain. Learn how much pressure your belly bump can take.

Speeding down a bumpy road can be bad for the baby, especially toward the end of your pregnancy. You don’t need to move to the suburbs or the city, but drive slowly and watch those bumps and dips, and you should be fine.

Are speed bumps bad for pregnancy?

Now, let’s head back to the suburbs and cities out there. These are the places you’ll find speed bumps. Are they bad for pregnancy?

As it turns out, yes, speed bumps could harm your growing fetus!

Researchers at the University of British Columbia found that driving at moderate speeds over roads with speed bumps can create enough force to hurt the baby. They found that going over 27mph was far too high for fetal organs to withstand, especially the brain.

It’s wise to pay attention when you’re driving in any setting. If you are, you will notice signs that warn you of all sorts of things. Speed bumps tend to be one of them.

The posted speed is usually capped at 15mph in places with speed bumps. And that is the maximum speed you should ever go over a speed bump, especially while pregnant. Be aware as you head down those roads with speed bumps while driving.

And if someone else is driving you, make sure they obey the posted speed limits, especially in areas with speed bumps. If your husband wants to live on the edge and throw caution to the wind, remind him of what going to quickly over a speed bump can do to a vehicle and the baby too!

Can bumpy roads make you go into labor?

There’s not a drop of evidence that has linked a bumpy road ride to inducing labor . That said, take it easy on bumpy roads of all kinds. You don’t want to wind up causing harm to your baby. While driving a slow speed down a bumpy road isn’t going to do anything bad, if you race over that kind of terrain, you’re playing with fire.

What to know about off-roading activities while pregnant

Now, let me address my outdoor enthusiast mamas. I hate to tell you this, but it’s probably better to wait until after having the baby participate in your favorite off-roading activities.

Many women still do so, though I have to advise against it. I urge you to speak to your doctor about any particular activity you’re considering before you do it.

The March of Dimes has said that bouncy and jerky activities in movements are something you should not do. Unless you or the driver of the off-road vehicle is going super slow, you will likely have complications in your pregnancy from off-roading, and even that is generous at best.

There are certain things to consider, such as how far along you are in your pregnancy, your health, the health of the baby, and so on. As you speak to your doctor about this, be specific about what type of off-roading activity you hope to do. If your doctor isn’t into off-roading, he or she may simply assume you mean riding down a dirt road in a regular car.

Should your doctor say the particular activity for off-roading you have in mind is ok, remember that you should always take things slow. I know that likely takes all the fun out of it, but would you rather have fun for a moment that may cost you the life of your baby?

Additionally, it would help if you never rode in a vehicle that doesn’t have doors or proper airflow. Even if you drove like a snail in a Jeep without doors down an off-road trail, you could risk injury to yourself, the baby, or both.

Of course, there are some off-roading activities you should not ever do while pregnant. That would include racing, steep trails, or bouncing quickly down those extremely bumpy roads.

With racing, even on the street, that’s just a bad idea waiting to happen. You could crash, roll over, and cause serious harm to yourself and your baby.

Unfortunately, some of you will be sad about the news I’m about to share, but I want you to be safe. So, that said, you should never ride an ATC, four-wheeler, or dirt bike while pregnant. That goes for riding a side by side while pregnant too.

These off-road vehicles are dangerous for anyone. They become even more dangerous when you’re pregnant. There are no doors, roofs, or roll cages to protect you. Anything can happen, and do you want to risk it? Just wait until you’ve had your postpartum checkup, and you can arrange for someone to watch your baby while you get back into your extreme outdoor activities.

I’ve put together some of the FAQs that kept popping up to help better answer all your questions below.

Can you ride 4-wheelers while pregnant?

Nope, nope, and nope. Please don’t ride on a 4-wheeler during your pregnancy. If you don’t believe me, ask your doctor.

Can jerks on bumpy roads cause miscarriage in early pregnancy?

As I mentioned earlier, jerks on bumpy roads can’t cause miscarriage early in pregnancy. I’d avoid going fast down any jerky, bumpy road to prevent problems. However, a bumpy car ride is less likely to cause severe trauma. If you have an accident, that could cause a miscarriage ( see my post about that here ).

Can a bumpy car ride cause placental abruption?

For those unfamiliar with the term, placental abruption is a serious pregnancy complication. Generally, though, it is not very common and happens when the placenta either partially or fully separates from the inner wall of the uterus, which can block your baby’s oxygen and nutrient supply.

This is something that comes on quite suddenly and will cause heavy bleeding for you. It is more likely to happen in the last trimester, more toward the end. You will know because you’ll have abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, back pain, and contractions .

Often, the cause of it is unknown. However, it is mostly suspected that trauma and abdominal injuries, like falling or getting into a car accident, are the key instigators of this complication.

So, a bumpy car ride in itself shouldn’t cause this. But if you get into an accident either on regular roads or off-roads, that may harm your baby.

Can you go trail riding while pregnant?

Ah, let’s ditch the wheels and talk about horses for a moment. I have a cousin that loves horses. She has her stables, and we’ve all been to enjoy a trail ride several times over the years.

But my cousin will not let you go horseback riding if you’re pregnant. When she had her kids (she has 5), she only hated being pregnant because she couldn’t go riding. Horseback riding risks falling from a great height and causing trauma to the abdominal area.

If you love horses, consider visiting the stables but not for rides until after healing from having the baby.

Can you ride an ATV while pregnant?

No, you can’t ride an ATV while pregnant. And you can’t be riding side by side while pregnant too. Please don’t! The risk for trauma is exceptionally high here.

Does riding a go-kart cause miscarriage?

One of the neighborhood boys had a go-kart when I was a kid. We loved taking turns riding it down the street. One day, one of my friends spun out and flung herself into the grass. She got hurt pretty badly.

And we were teenagers and not pregnant. Go-karting brings with it quite a bit of risk. You could harm your baby if something happens while driving a go-kart or riding in one while pregnant.

For starters, go-karts are easy to crash. Racing is a bad idea while pregnant, especially in these. Even if you’re only driving it on a serene stretch of street in your neighborhood, you never know what may happen.

But if you go to that new entertainment complex with all the go-karts and fun stuff, do not ride the go-karts. Other drivers may crash into you, which can cause you to lose the baby.

Another thing about go-karts is that they aren’t made the same way as regular cars. They lack the same suspension as regular cars, so you’ll feel every bump, even if your surface isn’t bumpy.

Falling out of a go-kart is easy too. It may not have a seatbelt to keep you in, but the impact can squish your baby bump even if it does.

All in all, off-roading isn’t the best idea while you’re pregnant. But if you live on a bumpy road, driving down it slowly in a regular vehicle shouldn’t do any harm.

Leslie Berry lives with her husband and two young daughters in Los Altos, California, where she loves helping other moms get comfortable with motherhood and embracing the insanity with facts peppered with laughs.

She loves eating too much sushi, exercising, and jamming out on her Fender. Read more about Leslie here.

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2 thoughts on “Rough Riders: Here’s What to Know About Off-Roading Activities During Pregnancy”

Hi there thanks for this. I Was wondering what you thought about driving along dirt roads in rural south America? I will be 3 months when we go for 4 weeks, and the only way in and out of our house is along a basically disused dirt track with lots of ditches, holes, even little sideways hills which tips the car to one side where there has been a landslide before. We go very slowly but there can be quite big nosedives and we sometimes hit unexpected potholes when going faster along the “main” dirt road (of course go slow when we can see them) – do you think this is safe?

Thanks for commenting, Lily. If it’s the only way in or out, I recommend that you just allow for extra time when coming and going and traveling exceedingly slow on those roads. Try not to take them often, perhaps lumping your trips out of the property together, so you’re not going back and forth so frequently. By taking the time to go very slow, it should mitigate the bumpiness while on the road. Make sure you’re seated properly, too, to protect yourself and the baby. Best of luck, mama, and let me know how it goes!

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Watch CBS News

Texas man details wife's devastating miscarriage amid state's strict abortion laws: "Nobody uses the word abortion"

By Omar Villafranca , Jennifer Earl , Rachel Bailey

Updated on: June 4, 2024 / 10:52 AM EDT / CBS News

Texas radio host Ryan Hamilton's world was shattered last month when his wife told him she was suffering a miscarriage at nearly 13 weeks pregnant and the fetus no longer had a heartbeat.

But for Hamilton and his wife, the nightmare was just beginning.

Medical records reviewed by CBS News show Hamilton's wife, who asked not to be named, was treated at a Surepoint Emergency Center branch near their home in North Texas. There, doctors confirmed the fetus — their second child — had no heartbeat, according to the records. His wife was prescribed the drug misoprostol , which induces labor and is used for both miscarriages and abortions. Hamilton says doctors told them the medication may need to be repeated, so they were prescribed one refill.

Starting treatment for miscarriage

"We were told she could take a medication that would start the process to finish…to finish what had already started at home," an emotional Hamilton told CBS News correspondent Omar Villafranca in an interview for "CBS Mornings" that aired on Tuesday.

Hamilton said doctors referred to it as terminating the pregnancy.

"Nobody uses the word abortion at this point," he said. "No one has said that word."

Misoprostol is often prescribed after a miscarriage to help a woman's body expel the fetal tissue from the uterus, which could otherwise cause a potentially life-threatening infection.

Hamilton said after his wife took the first round of misoprostol, it was clear the dose of medication wasn't working, so he went to the pharmacy to get the refill so she could begin the next round of the drug.

When the second round failed, Hamilton called the Surepoint Emergency Center and explained that the medication wasn't working. His wife returned to the medical center, where Hamilton says a different doctor told her they couldn't give her another refill to continue the process.

"She goes back in and that doctor says, 'Due to the current stance, I cannot prescribe this medicine for you,'" said Hamilton, adding the only word to describe what he was feeling at that moment was "fury."

Texas abortion laws

The only explanation Hamilton could think of was that this doctor thought the current state laws in Texas prevented it. Texas bans abortions at about six weeks unless there's a medical exception for a pregnancy that threatens the mother's life or health in a way that would result in "substantial impairment of a major bodily function," according to the law .

The Texas Supreme Court recently rejected a challenge to the state's abortion ban over medical exemptions, ruling that "Texas law permits a physician to address the risk that a life-threatening condition poses before a woman suffers the consequences of that risk." Doctors convicted of providing an illegal abortion could face fines of up to $100,000 and even jail time.

Surepoint Emergency Center declined CBS News' request for comment on Hamilton's situation, citing patient confidentiality and HIPAA laws.

The couple was left devastated and confused.

"You start thinking about the women that have to drive across state lines. We've heard these stories. And you — just as a husband, you go, 'Is that what we're gonna have to do?'" Hamilton wondered.

"The doctors feel scared"

Hamilton tried to keep his composure for his wife.

"You want to panic, but you can't," he told Villafranca. "What are we going to do? Leave the baby inside her so she can get an infection? Get sepsis that can kill her?"

The pair left the Surepoint Emergency Center and drove to another hospital about an hour away, where she was evaluated for about four hours. The doctors again confirmed the tragic news that there was no fetal heartbeat. Hamilton asked CBS News to not name the second hospital.

"I think the delay is their confusion on what they're allowed to do. That's what it feels like. They feel scared. The doctors feel scared," explained Hamilton about the hours-long visit. 

Doctors told Hamilton that it wasn't enough of an emergency to perform a D&C, also known as dilation and curettage —  a surgical procedure to remove fetal tissue inside the uterus, used for both miscarriages and abortions.

According to Texas law, abortions are illegal once a fetal heartbeat is detected with exceptions for medical emergencies. The law doesn't require there to be a medical emergency to perform a D&C if there's no cardiac activity, like in Hamilton's case.

"The conversation is not what's best for my wife. The conversation is on the hospital side, 'What should we do?'" Hamilton said.

"This really happens"

The doctors opted to give Hamilton's wife a higher dose of misoprostol and sent her home for a third time. 

"People are not aware of how common miscarriages are. One out of every five pregnancies end in miscarriage. This is a common experience for women, and so it's really scary that here you have a woman going through something that's actually quite common and having such a frustrating time getting the care that she needed," CBS News medical contributor Dr. Céline Gounder, editor-at-large for public health at KFF Health News, said on "CBS Mornings."

In a statement, the hospital told CBS News it follows state and federal laws in accordance with national standards of care.

"We provide training and education to our employed providers to ensure they understand any changes to applicable laws related to patient care. Medical care for all patients is determined by the attending physician based on clinical indications. D&Cs and medications are treatments providers can use based on the patient's condition and the provider's clinical judgment. Care for miscarriage generally does not require Ethics Committee review," the hospital's statement read, in part.

Shortly after returning home, Hamilton recalled playing with his 9-month-old daughter when he noticed a missed call from his wife. He found her unconscious in the bathroom surrounded by blood. He carried her to the car and rushed to the emergency room.

"I got to the hospital, ran inside, told them what was happening. And they took her in. And you know what they said? 'Thank God, you brought her,'" he recalled angrily, adding that at one point he thought he might lose his wife.

The doctors told the couple that the third round of misoprostol was successful. Eventually, she was stable and the pair was able to return home. But the painful process of losing their child is something that will stick with them forever. 

"I want people to know that this really happens. My fear is that stories like ours will continue to get told and not believed," Hamilton said. "Everything in her life right now that she's having to do to get better is not just a reminder of the baby that we lost, it's a reminder of what they put her through, and she has to do it every day."

Omar Villafranca is a CBS News correspondent based in Dallas. He joined CBS News in 2014 as a correspondent for Newspath. Before CBS, Villafranca worked at KXAS-TV Dallas-Fort Worth, at KOTV-TV the CBS affiliate in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and at KSWO-TV in Lawton, Oklahoma.

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