Recurrent miscarriage, also called recurrent pregnancy loss, is a devastating condition that affects many couples who are trying to conceive. It is defined as the loss of three or more consecutive pregnancies before reaching 20 weeks of gestation.

An estimated 1% of all couples trying to conceive experience recurrent miscarriage. Although there are many possible causes of recurrent miscarriage, the exact cause is still unknown in most cases.

Chromosomal Abnormalities

The most common cause of recurrent miscarriage is chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus. Chromosomal abnormalities occur when there are errors in the number or structure of chromosomes.

These abnormalities can occur spontaneously during fertilization or early embryonic development. In many cases, chromosomal abnormalities are not inherited, but rather occur randomly.

Hormonal Imbalances

Hormonal imbalances can also contribute to recurrent miscarriage. Hormonal imbalances can affect the function of the ovaries and uterus, causing abnormalities in ovulation, implantation, and early fetal development.

Hormonal imbalances can also cause conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, and diabetes, which can increase the risk of miscarriage.

Autoimmune Disorders

Autoimmune disorders can also be a contributing factor in recurrent miscarriage. Autoimmune disorders occur when the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues or cells.

In some cases, the immune system can attack the developing fetus, causing miscarriage. Conditions such as lupus, antiphospholipid syndrome, and rheumatoid arthritis can increase the risk of recurrent miscarriage.

Anatomical Abnormalities

Anatomical abnormalities of the uterus or cervix can also cause recurrent miscarriage. An abnormal shape or size of the uterus or cervix can affect implantation and fetal growth, making it difficult for a viable pregnancy to develop.

Conditions such as uterine fibroids, polyps, or scar tissue from previous surgeries can also cause problems with implantation and fetal growth.

Infections

Infections can also play a role in recurrent miscarriage. Infections such as rubella, cytomegalovirus (CMV), and toxoplasmosis can cause fetal abnormalities and miscarriage.

Sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhea can also increase the risk of miscarriage.

Lifestyle Factors

Lifestyle factors such as smoking, drinking alcohol, and using drugs can also increase the risk of recurrent miscarriage. These factors can affect fertility and fetal development, increasing the risk of miscarriage.

Obesity can also increase the risk of miscarriage and other pregnancy complications.

Age

Age is another factor that can contribute to recurrent miscarriage. Women over the age of 35 have a higher risk of miscarriage due to a decline in the quality of their eggs.

As a woman ages, her eggs are more likely to have chromosomal abnormalities, making it more difficult to conceive a viable pregnancy.

Medical Conditions

Medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and kidney disease can also increase the risk of recurrent miscarriage.

These conditions can affect the health of the mother and the developing fetus, making it more difficult for a viable pregnancy to develop.

Coping with Recurrent Miscarriage

Recurrent miscarriage can be a devastating and emotionally challenging experience for couples. It is important for couples to seek support from their healthcare provider, family, and friends.

Counseling or therapy may also be beneficial in helping couples cope with their grief and anxiety.

Treatment Options

The treatment options for recurrent miscarriage depend on the underlying cause of the condition. In some cases, no specific cause can be identified and treatment may not be necessary.

In other cases, treatment may involve addressing hormonal imbalances, treating infections, or performing surgical procedures to correct anatomical abnormalities.