Understanding the growing challenge of recurrent miscarriages among young mothers in Chad
In the heart of N’Djamena and across secondary cities in Chad, an alarming trend is taking a toll on young women in their twenties. Recurrent miscarriages, though rarely discussed, are becoming an increasingly pressing medical and social issue. These women face not only physical health challenges but also profound emotional and relational consequences, exacerbated by societal taboos, limited awareness, and barriers to accessing specialized care.
Medical perspectives on spontaneous abortion
According to Dr. Deubalbe Djonka Djoret, a general practitioner, a miscarriage occurs when a pregnancy ends spontaneously before the 20th to 22nd week of amenorrhea—before the fifth month. « This is a frequent phenomenon with multiple potential causes, » he explains. « Identifying the root of the issue is crucial for preventing recurrence and safeguarding future pregnancies. »
Root causes: from uterine anomalies to nutritional deficiencies
The specialist highlights several categories of causes:
- Local factors: Conditions like uterine fibroids or cervical insufficiency, where the cervix fails to retain the fetus until full term, are common contributors.
- Hormonal and nutritional imbalances: Disruptions in estrogen and progesterone levels can disrupt normal pregnancy progression. Deficiencies in iron or folic acid may lead to fetal neural tube defects and increase miscarriage risk.
- Genetic and chromosomal anomalies: Early pregnancy genetic irregularities or incompatibility in Rh factor (when the mother is Rh-negative and the father Rh-positive) are also significant risk factors.
- Infections: Diseases such as malaria, syphilis, toxoplasmosis, and amniotic fluid infections pose serious but often overlooked threats to pregnancy.
- Chronic illnesses: Unmanaged conditions like diabetes, hypertension, kidney disease, and heart disease elevate risks. Additionally, self-medication and exposure to teratogenic drugs can harm fetal development.
Why young women are disproportionately affected
Young mothers are particularly vulnerable due to several factors:
- Improper use of hormonal contraceptives or medications without medical guidance.
- Engaging in high-risk behaviors such as alcohol consumption during pregnancy.
- Lack of preconception counseling, which could help identify and mitigate risk factors before conception.
Psychological and relational consequences
The emotional toll of recurrent miscarriages is severe. Many women experience loss of self-esteem, anxiety, or depression, which can strain marital relationships. « The psychological impact is often underestimated, but it’s just as critical as the physical aspects, » notes Dr. Djonka.
Early diagnosis and prevention: key to turning the tide
Timely medical intervention is vital. Unfortunately, advanced diagnostic tools such as endovaginal ultrasound for cervical measurement or genetic testing remain largely inaccessible in many parts of Chad. « Expanding access to these services could dramatically reduce recurrence rates, » the doctor emphasizes.
He strongly advises women to seek preconception counseling to assess and address potential risks before pregnancy. Once pregnant, early and regular prenatal visits with a general practitioner or obstetrician-gynecologist are essential for a healthy outcome.
Empowering women through awareness and care
Breaking the silence around recurrent miscarriages is the first step toward change. By fostering open dialogue, improving healthcare access, and promoting education on reproductive health, communities can better support young mothers facing this silent crisis.
