Recurrent Miscarriage: Treatment & Diagnosis

Miscarriage, which is the spontaneous loss of pregnancy before the 20th week, is a common occurrence in pregnancy. It is estimated that 10-20% of pregnancies end in miscarriage, and most occur during the first trimester. However, when a woman has experienced two or more consecutive miscarriages, it is known as recurrent miscarriage. Recurrent miscarriage affects approximately 1% of couples trying to conceive and can cause significant emotional distress.

Diagnosis of Recurrent Miscarriage

The diagnosis of recurrent miscarriage is typically made after two or more consecutive pregnancy losses. However, the underlying cause of recurrent miscarriage can be difficult to determine. In most cases, a thorough evaluation of both partners is necessary to identify any potential factors that may be contributing to recurrent miscarriage.

Some of the tests that may be performed include:

1. Chromosome analysis: Chromosome analysis is a blood test that looks for abnormalities in the chromosomes of both partners.
2. Hormone testing: Hormone testing is a blood test that evaluates the levels of various hormones in the body, including progesterone, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH).
3. Ultrasound: An ultrasound can be used to look for any abnormalities in the uterus or ovaries that may be contributing to recurrent miscarriage.
4. Hysteroscopy: Hysteroscopy is a procedure in which a small camera is inserted through the cervix to look at the inside of the uterus. This can help identify any structural abnormalities that may be contributing to recurrent miscarriage.
5. Antiphospholipid antibody testing: Antiphospholipid antibody testing is a blood test that looks for antibodies that can cause blood clots and may be contributing to recurrent miscarriage.

Treatment of Recurrent Miscarriage

The treatment of recurrent miscarriage will depend on the underlying cause. In some cases, no underlying cause can be identified, and the treatment will focus on supportive care and monitoring during future pregnancies.

Some of the treatments that may be recommended include:

1. Progesterone supplementation: Progesterone is a hormone that is important for maintaining a healthy pregnancy. In some cases, progesterone supplementation may be recommended to help prevent miscarriage.
2. Surgery: If structural abnormalities are identified, surgery may be recommended to correct them.
3. Anticoagulant therapy: If antiphospholipid antibodies are identified, anticoagulant therapy may be recommended to help prevent blood clots that can cause miscarriage.
4. In vitro fertilization (IVF): In some cases, IVF may be recommended to help identify embryos that are more likely to result in a successful pregnancy.
5. Counseling and emotional support: Recurrent miscarriage can be emotionally challenging. Counselling and emotional support may be recommended to help couples cope with the stress and anxiety associated with recurrent miscarriage.

In conclusion, recurrent miscarriage can be a devastating experience for couples trying to conceive. The diagnosis and treatment of recurrent miscarriage can be complex and require a thorough evaluation of both partners. However, with proper IVF diagnosis and treatment, many couples are able to go on to have successful pregnancies.

Know More to Expert Dr Shivani Sachdev Gour