When a woman experiences multiple miscarriages, it can be a devastating and frustrating experience. Recurrent miscarriages are defined as the loss of two or more consecutive pregnancies before the 20th week of gestation.

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, around 10% of all pregnancies end in miscarriage, and just one to two percent of women experience recurrent miscarriages. However, the emotional impact for those affected can be significant, and it is important to understand the possible causes and treatment options.

Causes of Recurrent Miscarriages

Anatomical Issues

In some cases, recurrent miscarriages may be caused by anatomical issues in the mother’s reproductive system.

These issues may include problems with the uterus, such as fibroids or uterine septum, or problems with the cervix, such as cervical insufficiency. These issues may be corrected through surgery, which can increase the chances of a successful pregnancy.

Chromosomal Abnormalities

Chromosomal abnormalities may also cause recurrent miscarriages. These abnormalities may be inherited or a result of chromosomal errors that occur during conception.

Women who experience recurrent miscarriages may undergo genetic testing to determine if chromosomal abnormalities are the cause of their losses.

Hormonal Imbalances

Hormonal imbalances can also contribute to recurrent miscarriages. Issues with thyroid function, for example, can lead to miscarriages or difficulty conceiving.

Other hormonal imbalances, such as problems with progesterone levels, can also cause issues with implantation and contribute to recurrent miscarriages.

Autoimmune Disorders

Autoimmune disorders can play a role in repeated miscarriages. These disorders, such as lupus or antiphospholipid syndrome, can cause the immune system to attack the fetus, leading to miscarriage.

Women who experience recurrent miscarriages may be tested for autoimmune disorders and treated through medication or other therapies.

Treatment Options

Assisted Reproductive Technologies

For some women, assisted reproductive technologies may be an option to increase the chances of a successful pregnancy.

In vitro fertilization (IVF), for example, can help bypass obstacles to conception and allow for the selection of healthy embryos for implantation. Other technologies, such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), can also help improve the chances of fertilization.

Hormone Therapy

In some cases, hormone therapy may help address hormonal imbalances that contribute to recurrent miscarriages. Progesterone supplements, for example, may help support the uterus and prevent miscarriage.

Women who have issues with thyroid function may also benefit from hormone therapy to regulate their thyroid levels.

Surgery

Surgery may be an option for women with anatomical issues that contribute to recurrent miscarriages. For example, surgery may be performed to correct problems with the uterus or cervix that make conceiving and carrying a pregnancy to term difficult.

Immune Therapy

For women with autoimmune disorders, immune therapy may be an option. This may include medication to suppress the immune system or treatments to improve blood flow to the uterus and placenta, which can help support the growing fetus.

Conclusion

Recurrent miscarriages can be an emotionally challenging experience for those affected. However, there are a variety of underlying causes and treatment options available.

It is important for women who experience recurrent miscarriages to work closely with their healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and explore options for treatment.