Ined study identifies maternal age as primary miscarriage risk factor

A study published by the Institut national d'études démographiques (Ined) identifies maternal age as the primary risk factor for miscarriage. Based on national health data and surveys, the research indicates that between 10% and 14% of pregnancies end in spontaneous loss, with the majority occurring during the first trimester.

The risk follows a J-shaped curve: it is relatively high at over 10% for women under 20, decreases in subsequent years, and begins to rise again in the mid-thirties. Specifically, the rate is 8% for women aged 35, increasing to 14% at age 40, and reaching 23% by age 45. The study noted that risk levels vary little based on financial status or educational attainment.

Beyond biological factors, the research highlights a gap between patient expectations and the care received in gynecological emergency departments. Many women reported feeling that hospital environments were poorly adapted for pregnancy loss and noted a lack of medical follow-up and information. These findings suggest a need to rethink the care protocols provided during early pregnancy loss.