Miscarriage is a serious risk for mothers involved in car accidents. If something punctures the stomach and uterus in the accident, it could kill the fetus. The mother could lose oxygen and potentially go into cardiac arrest. This can also cause miscarriage.

What happens if a pregnant woman gets into an accident?

Even if you feel fine, call your healthcare provider, or head to an emergency room right away. While the womb does offer some protection for your baby and placenta during a sudden impact, slamming on the brakes — even if the resulting jolt is not severe — can potentially separate the placenta from the uterus.

What kind of injury can cause a miscarriage?

One study of 62 women who were hospitalized for car accidents in the first trimester did not find a higher chance for birth defects than in the general population. Studies are needed to determine if trauma during pregnancy increases the chance for birth defects. Can trauma cause pregnancy complications?