Around one percent of couples will suffer from what is known as a recurrent miscarriage. This is the loss of three or more babies before the 20 week period. One miscarriage is extremely devastating for many couples so there is no surprise that recurrent miscarriages are also devastating.
The chances of having a recurrent miscarriage
As stated, around one percent of couples have multiple miscarriages and this is the same amount for those women who have already have one miscarriage. While this is a low amount, it is still devastating on a family. There are no genetic links as to why the problem may occur, so women cannot prepare themselves by talking to their parents.
The good news is that women who do suffer from recurrent miscarriages may still be able to conceive and successfully carry a baby for the full term; however, the correct care is needed throughout all stages of pregnancy.
Why does a recurrent miscarriage happen?
Unfortunately, miscarriages happen for unknown reasons. 50 percent of them will terminate themselves due to a defect chromosome or another genetic problem; the best way to look at it is that parents will not have to make a tough decision during the later stages of the pregnancy.
The other 50 percent of miscarriages happen due to other problems such as infections, stress levels and even the uterus shape or lack of blood reaching the embryo.
Recurrent miscarriages are commonly seen as a problem between the match of the parents’ chromosomes or a hormonal problem. However, tests will be needed to taken to find out the real reason. A doctor will be able to do this.
Investigating a recurrent miscarriage
There are treatments to help with recurrent miscarriages but an investigation is needed first. This will help to determine the reason. There are a number of different ways to investigate into why these miscarriages are occurring.
The first one will look into the uterus’ shape and look into whether there is a scar tissue that will cause the pregnancy to terminate itself; this is highly recommended since it is the reason for 60 to 80 percent of recurrent miscarriages. The second test is a biopsy to test the hormonal balance; this is done when an imbalance is thought to be the reason. Finally, a third test will check on the immune system, which will often attack the embryo believing that it should not be there.
Treatment for recurrent miscarriages
Once the reason for the recurrent miscarriage has been determined, the correct treatment can be given. There are times that this will mean surgery, especially if there is a problem with the uterus shape. However, there are other times that pills can be taken to help with balancing hormones or to suppress the immune system.
It is important to follow the care correctly at all times to help prevent another miscarriage from happening. There are also times that IVF treatment will need to be used to help prevent the chances of the next pregnancy aborting itself.
