Close ILTakeCare Suggestion
IL TakeCare app – For all your insurance & wellness needs

Policy purchase, claims, renewal & more

 

What are the risks of miscarriage by week?

Miscarriage risks decrease as pregnancy progresses: highest in weeks 1-6 due to chromosomal abnormalities affecting implantation; declining but still significant in weeks 7-12, with strong fetal heartbeat by week 8 substantially reducing risk; much lower in weeks 13-20 (second trimester) though still possible from infections, cervical insufficiency, or underlying health conditions; and after week 20, classified as stillbirth rather than miscarriage.

  • 28 Apr 2025
  • 3 min read
  • 5 views

For many, pregnancy is often an exciting journey. But it can also bring in concerns such as that of the risk of miscarriage. The likelihood of pregnancy loss decreases as the weeks progress, but understanding miscarriage risks by week can help ease concerns and encourage timely prenatal care. Although general statistics and tools like miscarriage risk calculators exist, every pregnancy is unique, and many factors influence individual outcomes.

 

The risks of miscarriage by week

  • In the earliest weeks, weeks 1 to 6, miscarriage risk is the highest, often due to chromosomal abnormalities preventing proper implantation.
  • In weeks 7 to 12, pregnancy loss risks start declining but remain significant. A strong fetal heartbeat by week 8 reduces the chances of miscarriage considerably.
  • In weeks 13 to 20 or the second trimester, while the risk drops, factors like infections, cervical insufficiency, or underlying health conditions can still contribute.
  • After 20 weeks, pregnancy loss is classified as stillbirth rather than miscarriage and is much rarer.

 

Ensuring a safe pregnancy

While miscarriage risks cannot always be eliminated, having handy a maternity health insurance can help cover regular prenatal care, essential screenings and medical support, improving pregnancy outcomes.


Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.

Also read:

  • Looking for tailored advice?

    Schedule a call with our insurance advisors

  • OR
  • Call us:

    1800 2666
Please enter valid name
Please enter a valid mobile number
Please select the Category

Subscribe to our newsletter

Understand insurance better by reading our helpful guides, articles, blogs and other information.

Please enter valid name
Please enter valid Email

Error message here