What is the percentage of clinically recognized pregnancies that experience miscarriages?

The statistic indicating that approximately 15% of clinically recognized pregnancies result in miscarriage is well-supported by research in obstetrics. Clinically recognized pregnancies can be defined as those pregnancies that have been confirmed via ultrasound or by measuring hCG levels.

Miscarriage, or spontaneous abortion, typically occurs in the first trimester and is influenced by various factors, including chromosomal abnormalities, maternal health, and environmental factors. The 15% figure is often cited in medical literature as representing the average risk of miscarriage for women who know they are pregnant.

Understanding this statistic is crucial for healthcare providers, as it helps frame expectations for patients who may be anxious about their pregnancies. It also underscores the importance of prenatal care and early monitoring to address any potential complications that could lead to a miscarriage.

Other percentages typically mentioned in differing contexts relate to all pregnancies, including those that are not clinically recognized (which can raise overall miscarriage rates), but in the context of clinically confirmed pregnancies, 15% reflects the consensus in medical research.