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🔬 Biology  ·  Human Reproduction  ·  NEET

What causes miscarriage (spontaneous abortion) in early pregnancy?

Answer: Most early miscarriages (first trimester) are due to chromosomal abnormalities in the embryo; also maternal factors (uterine abnormalities, hormonal issues).

  • A Excessively elevated levels of the hCG hormone secreted continuously by the developing trophoblast tissue layer according to conventional understanding
  • B Most early miscarriages (first trimester) are due to chromosomal abnormalities in the embryo; also maternal factors (uterine abnormalities, hormonal issues)
  • C Insufficient FSH secretion occurring mainly from the anterior pituitary gland of the mother herself in routine practice overall in most cases under typical conditions
  • D Physical trauma occurring largely alone, with little contribution from any underlying genetic factor present according to standard textbooks in general practice

Correct answer: B. Most early miscarriages (first trimester) are due to chromosomal abnormalities in the embryo; also maternal factors (uterine abnormalities, hormonal issues)

Explanation: ~50-60% of spontaneous abortions occur due to chromosomal abnormalities in the embryo (mostly trisomies). Other causes: luteal phase deficiency (insufficient progesterone), uterine structural abnormalities, antiphospholipid syndrome, thyroid disorders, advanced maternal age.

Sagittal section of the human male reproductive system showing the testis, epididymis, vas deferens, seminal vesicle, prostate gland, bulbourethral gland, urethra, urinary bladder and penis

The human male reproductive system: sperm formed in the testis mature in the epididymis and travel via the vas deferens, mixing with secretions of the seminal vesicle, prostate and bulbourethral glands. Image: Wumingbai, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

Concept context

Male and female reproductive systems, gametogenesis, fertilization, implantation, pregnancy, and reproductive health.

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