Repeated miscarriages in young chadian mothers: causes and solutions

In various neighborhoods of N’Djamena and other key cities across Chad, an alarming trend is emerging: repeated miscarriages among young mothers in their twenties. This silent crisis carries profound medical and social repercussions, yet remains widely under-addressed. The burden of stigma, limited awareness, and restricted access to specialized care exacerbate the emotional and relational fallout for affected couples.

To shed light on this pressing issue, we spoke with Dr. Deubalbe Djonka Djoret, a general practitioner, who shared his insights on the causes and consequences of recurrent miscarriages.

understanding recurrent miscarriages

A miscarriage, or spontaneous abortion, occurs when a pregnancy ends before the 20th to 22nd week of amenorrhea—roughly before the fifth month. According to Dr. Djonka, this unfortunate event is not uncommon and can stem from multiple sources.

local and hormonal causes

The physician highlights local factors such as uterine fibroids or cervical incompetence, where the cervix fails to retain the fetus until full term. Hormonal imbalances, particularly between estrogen and progesterone, can also disrupt healthy pregnancy progression. Additionally, deficiencies in iron or folic acid may lead to severe fetal nervous system abnormalities and ultimately miscarriage.

genetic and immune risks

Genetic abnormalities during early pregnancy are another critical cause. The Rh factor poses a significant risk, especially when the mother is Rh-negative and the father is Rh-positive, as it can trigger immune responses harmful to the fetus.

infections and chronic conditions

Infections like malaria, amniotic fluid infections, syphilis, and toxoplasmosis are often overlooked yet highly dangerous during pregnancy. Chronic illnesses, including diabetes, hypertension, kidney failure, and heart disease, further elevate miscarriage risks if left unmanaged. Self-medication and exposure to certain toxic drugs are additional hazards, particularly for young mothers who may lack proper medical guidance.

why young women are disproportionately affected

Young mothers face heightened vulnerability due to several factors. Improper use of hormonal contraceptives, alcohol consumption during pregnancy, and unsafe practices driven by misinformation all contribute to the problem. Without early intervention, these issues can spiral into a cycle of repeated losses, compounding physical and emotional strain.

the importance of early diagnosis

Early detection is crucial to preventing recurrence. Unfortunately, essential diagnostic tools—such as endovaginal ultrasound cervicometry or genetic testing—remain scarce or underutilized in many regions of Chad. This gap in care underscores the need for improved medical infrastructure and education.

the emotional toll of repeated miscarriages

The psychological impact of recurrent miscarriages is profound. Women often grapple with low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression, which can strain relationships and erode overall well-being. The emotional scars left by these experiences highlight the urgent need for mental health support alongside medical treatment.

expert advice for prevention and care

Dr. Djonka strongly advises women to seek prenatal care as early as possible to ensure a tailored and proactive approach. He also emphasizes the value of preconception counseling to identify and address risk factors before pregnancy even begins. By prioritizing these steps, young mothers can significantly reduce their chances of experiencing miscarriages and safeguard their long-term health.