Fertility treatment and services

Recurrent Pregnancy Loss

Having a miscarriage can be a wrenching experience for the couple that is looking forward to building their family. Miscarriage is not uncommon. In fact, about 15-20% of all pregnancies end in miscarriage. These usually happen within the first trimester of the pregnancy. Having a miscarriage is not indicative of future infertility.

In more than half the cases after one or even two miscarriages, the couple will have an unassisted live birth. Some are not as fortunate. Multiple, recurrent miscarriages can create a great sense of loss. Recurrent pregnancy loss occurs when two or more clinical pregnancies are lost. A clinical pregnancy is one that has been documented by ultrasound or a pathologic diagnosis.

Women who have had a history of two or more pregnancy losses have about a 40% risk of experiencing another miscarriage. Only about 1% of women who get pregnant experience recurrent pregnancy loss. Seeking medical attention to identify the cause is important.

CAUSES

There are some common causes that can lead to multiple miscarriage:

- Abnormal hormone levels – If the uterine lining does not develop sufficiently, the fertilized egg may not be able to implant as it should and receive the necessary nourishment. Thyroid and adrenal gland problems may be at fault. Elevated prolactin levels can also prevent normal development of the uterine lining.

- Cervical issues – When the cervical muscle is weakened and cannot remain closed while the fetus grows, at a certain weight, too much pressure will be put on the cervical opening.

- Environmental Factors – Toxins in the environment, pollution, smoking, caffeine and alcohol can impact fetal development and cause miscarriage.

- Genetic problems – A major cause of miscarriage is genetic abnormality. 50-60% of all miscarriages in the first trimester are due to chromosomal abnormalities.

- Infections – Fetal development can be affected or miscarriage can happen in women who have German measles (rubella), herpes simplex, ureaplasma, chlamydia and cytomegalovirus.

- Structural problems – If the shape of the uterus interferes with the implantation of a fertilized egg, a miscarriage could be the result. Uterine fibroids may also be at fault if their position affects the normal functioning of the uterine lining. Other structural problems can also cause miscarriage.

Not every condition that may lead to miscarriage will present with signs or symptoms.

GETTING HELP

Recurrent pregnancy loss can be devastating. If you have experienced two or more miscarriages, it is time to have a conversation with your doctor and identify the cause. You can contact the fertility experts at Chawla Nursing Home for options. We help those that want to have children achieve their dream of building their family. Schedule an appointment with us for a consultation.