Recurrent pregnancy loss is when you suffer two or more consecutive miscarriages. Common causes include chromosomal abnormalities, uterine anomalies, diabetes, thyroid disorders, and other underlying medical issues.

What Causes Recurrent Pregnancy Loss? Treatment & When to See a Fertility Specialist

Pregnancy loss is defined as miscarrying the fetus before 20 weeks of gestation. Recurrent Miscarriage is when you have two or more consecutive pregnancy losses, excluding ectopic and molar pregnancies.

It can be devastating, especially when you can’t figure out the underlying cause. A fertility specialist in Mulund investigates the causes of RPL and plans an appropriate treatment accordingly.

Common Causes of Recurrent Pregnancy Loss

RPL can have different causes, and sometimes, no identifiable cause. Here’s what mostly contributes to recurring miscarriages.

Chromosomal Abnormalities

This is the most common cause of early pregnancy losses. Both eggs and sperm make up an embryo’s genetic material. Errors in either gamete can cause chromosomal abnormalities, meaning the embryo has too many or too few chromosomes. Such pregnancies mostly result in miscarriages.

Uterine Anomalies

A uterine anomaly can be present from birth, while acquired uterine issues develop later due to an infection or surgical procedure. Fibroids and polyps can also interfere with pregnancy, especially submucosal or large intramural fibroids.

Diabetes

Poorly controlled diabetes can cause pregnancy complications and possibly a miscarriage. If you have diabetes, your gynecologist might consider an HbA1c test as part of your recurrent pregnancy loss evaluation.

Sperm DNA Fragmentation

Defects in the DNA material inside the sperm can also cause infertility and increased miscarriage risk. A sperm DNA fragmentation test can identify damaged genetic material within sperm. It’s recommended when other tests haven’t given a reliable explanation.

Blood-Clotting Disorder

Blood clotting disorders, particularly antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), can also cause recurrent pregnancy losses. It leads to blood clots developing in the blood vessels that supply the placenta, thus reducing oxygen and nutrient delivery to the fetus.

When to See a Fertility Specialist

If you have two consecutive pregnancy losses, getting an evaluation may be an appropriate decision. It’s especially advised if:

• You have known uterine anomalies
• You have a family history of genetic disorders
• You have age-related concerns (especially if you are above 35)
• You are considering IVF
• You have a history of antiphospholipid syndrome

Recurrent Miscarriage Treatment in Mulund

Your gynecologist will explain treatment options once the RPL cause is identified. Here’s what can improve your chances of a normal, healthy pregnancy.

• Treating Antiphospholipid Syndrome: If you are diagnosed with APS, low-dose aspirin combined with heparin may be advised to prevent clot formation.
• Uterine Anomalies Treatment: If RPL is linked to uterine anomalies, such as a uterine septum, polyps, large fibroids, or adhesions, surgical treatment may be considered.
• Treating Underlying Conditions: If underlying medical issues, such as thyroid disorders or diabetes, are diagnosed, these are managed before you plan pregnancy.

Is IVF a Good Treatment Choice for Recurrent Pregnancy Loss?

It depends on the cause of RPL. IVF is a multi-step assisted reproductive procedure that fertilizes an egg outside the woman’s uterus, in a controlled, regulated environment. The eggs are placed in a Petri dish with sperm for conventional or ICSI fertilization.

If chromosomal abnormalities are suspected, your gynecologist may advise PGT-A, a screening test that selects healthy embryos with no chromosomal abnormalities for transfer. These embryos are transferred into the woman’s uterus for implantation. The pregnancy continues normally after that. However, pregnancy with IVF isn’t guaranteed.