Repeated miscarriages in young mothers in Chad: causes and solutions

Silent suffering: why young mothers in Chad face repeated miscarriages

In neighborhoods across N’Djamena and smaller cities in Chad, repeated miscarriages among young women have become an alarming trend. Women in their twenties often endure this heartbreaking experience, yet support and awareness remain scarce. Between deep-rooted taboos, limited access to specialized care, and insufficient health education, the emotional and relational toll on these women and their partners is devastating.

Root causes behind repeated miscarriages in Chad

A local general practitioner, Dr. Deubalbe Djonka Djoret, sheds light on the medical complexities behind this issue. “A miscarriage occurs when a pregnancy is lost before the 20th or 22nd week, before the fifth month,” he explains. Multiple factors can trigger this painful outcome.

Local and structural health challenges

• Uterine fibroids or cervical incompetence, where the cervix fails to support the fetus until full term, are common local causes.
• Hormonal imbalances, such as low progesterone or excess estrogen, can disrupt a healthy pregnancy.
• Nutritional deficiencies in iron or folic acid may lead to severe fetal malformations, increasing miscarriage risks.

Genetic and chronic health risks

Genetic abnormalities in early pregnancy stages and Rh factor incompatibility—when the mother is Rh-negative and the father is Rh-positive—pose significant threats. Chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease, or heart disorders also elevate risks if left unmanaged. Self-medication and exposure to harmful substances further compound these dangers.

Infections: a hidden danger

Malaria, amniotic fluid infections, syphilis, and toxoplasmosis are often overlooked yet critical threats to pregnancy in Chad. Their silent progression can lead to devastating outcomes.

Why young mothers bear the brunt

Young women face heightened vulnerability due to several factors:

• Misuse of hormonal contraceptives or other medications.
• Risky behaviors, including alcohol consumption during pregnancy.
• Lack of awareness about safe practices and early warning signs.

Early diagnosis and prevention: key steps to reduce miscarriages

Dr. Djonka emphasizes the importance of early detection to prevent recurrence. Unfortunately, advanced diagnostic tools like endovaginal ultrasound cervicometry or genetic testing remain out of reach for many. “Timely medical consultation is crucial,” he stresses, “yet too many women delay care due to stigma or logistical barriers.”

Psychological scars: the unseen impact

The emotional toll of repeated miscarriages is profound. Women often experience loss of self-esteem, anxiety, or even depression, straining relationships and mental well-being. Support systems and mental health resources are critically needed but scarce in many communities.

Expert advice for safer pregnancies

To combat this crisis, Dr. Djonka urges all women considering pregnancy to:

• Schedule a preconception consultation to identify and address risks early.
• Seek regular prenatal care from a general practitioner or obstetrician-gynecologist from the start.
• Prioritize education on nutrition, medication safety, and infection prevention.