Recurrent miscarriage is when you experience pregnancy loss three or more times. It can be a distressing and traumatic situation, leading to depression. Studies show that recurrent miscarriages affect about one percent of all couples. Miscarriage can present as severe bleeding and cramps, tissue passage from the vagina, and absence of fetal movements. Recurrent miscarriage can result from medical conditions, disorders of reproductive organs, or hormonal problems. New York Noble Fertility Center specialists use an ultrasound scan to confirm your miscarriage. Most cases of recurrent miscarriages are treatable. There are various causes of repeated miscarriage, including:
Uterine abnormalities
Structural defects of your uterus can cause recurrent miscarriages. These abnormalities can be congenital or arise as you grow. A double or a uterus divided by a wall are common genetic defects. Uterine polyps and fibroids can also lead to recurrent miscarriages. In some women, fibroids and polyps do not affect pregnancy. Sometimes intra-uterine scarring can cause repeated miscarriages.
Cervical defects
Repeated miscarriage can result from a weakened cervix, especially in your second trimester. This issue is where you have weak cervical muscles that cannot hold an embryo. Injuries or surgery can lead to a weakened cervix. When you have weak muscles, your cervix can open before the due date, leading to miscarriage. Depending on your pregnancy and medical history, your doctor can recommend a cervical stitch to prevent miscarriage.
Environmental factors
Exposing yourself to certain chemicals, drugs, or radiation can cause miscarriage. These substances may be present in your place of work or involve your lifestyle practices. Excess alcohol consumption, tobacco use, illegal drugs, and caffeine are some lifestyle habits that can cause miscarriage. Obesity can also increase your chances of losing your pregnancy. Environmental hazards such as mercury, lead, or insecticides can lead to miscarriage.
Genetic problems
Embryos can have chromosomal problems, which lead to miscarriage. The chromosomal disorder is common, where fifty to eighty percent of cases are diagnosed during the first trimester. Sometimes chromosomal disorders may be passed on, leading to multiple miscarriages. If you get repeated miscarriage, ensure you get a karyotype test with your partner for a balanced translocation. You will most likely detect that either parent has a low percentage of a balanced translocation.
Hormonal issues
Specific hormones are essential to keep a pregnancy. If these hormones are absent or insufficient, you might have a miscarriage. Hyper prolactin anemia and low thyroid amounts can alter the hormones that maintain pregnancy. Low progesterone levels can affect zygote implantation, causing miscarriage. Your doctor can recommend medications to help balance your hormones.
Autoimmune conditions
Immunological issues occur when you produce antibodies that cause clotting of blood vessels, leading to your developing embryo. The clot obstructs the embryo from accessing nutrients from the mother, and it dies, resulting in pregnancy loss. If you have a clotting problem, your doctor can recommend aspirin or heparin for treatment. Heparin is an anticoagulant, so it helps prevent clotting issues.
Recurrent miscarriage is pregnancy loss three or more times. It can be caused by uterine and cervical disorders, autoimmune issues, hormonal problems, and genetic disorders. Schedule an appointment at Noble Fertility Center for recurrent miscarriage treatment to fulfill your desire to have a family.