Recurrent pregnancy loss/abortions is defined as two or more consecutive spontaneous pregnancy losses. About 1 % of couples trying to have children are affected by recurrent miscarriage 
Dr Pooja Mehta is the Director and Unit Head of Obstetrics and Gynecology at W. Pratiksha Hospital, Gurgaon. She has 18 years of experience and has an expertise in gynaecological laparoscopic surgeries and has performed many complicated gynaecological laparoscopic and hysteroscopic surgeries. She is a reputed doctor and gives patients her undivided attention.
MOST COMMON CAUSES OF RECURRENT PREGNANCY LOSS
- Chromosomal disorders-chromosomal problem (aneuploidy and translocation )of one or both partners can lead to recurrent miscarriages
- Endocrine disorders-Hypothyroidism and diabetes mellitus leads to increased miscarriages.women with Polycystic ovarian syndrome ( PCOS ) have higher loss rates related to hyperinsulinemia and excess androgen. Inadequate production of progesterone may set the stage for recurrent miscarriages.
- Blood clotting disorders-Thrombophilia, Factor V Leiden gene mutation may lead to increased risk of miscarriage
- Antiphospholipid syndrome is an autoimmune disease that is a common cause of recurrent miscarriages
- Anatomical cause-the structure of the uterus and cervical incompetence may cause premature pregnancy losses
- Infections-Maternal infections such as toxoplasmosis, rubella, herpes, cytomegalovirus, measles can lead to recurrent miscarriages
- Unexplained causes
- Less common causes include long time exposure to smoking, alcohol and drugs.
HOW TO MANAGE
INVESTIGATIONS REQUIRED
- USG -TRANS VAGINAL SONOGRAM TO DETECT anatomical abnormalities and congenital malformations of the uterus.
- Parental karyotype to detect chromosomal problems
- Blood tests for thrombophilia and antiphospholipid syndrome
- Thyroid function and blood sugar tests
- Tests for screening infections
PREVENTING MISCARRIAGE
- Visit a high-risk obstetrician for preconceptional counselling and regular antenatal checkup
- To start prenatal vitamins (folic acid 5 mg ).
- Optimisation of blood sugar levels and hyperinsulinemia with oral hypoglycemic drugs( Metformin ) has to be done.
- Optimisation of thyroid hormone levels with thyroid medication is essential.
- You may be asked to take low dose aspirin ( 75 mg) in pregnancy.
- Daily subcutaneous injection of low molecular weight heparin ( in case of thrombophilia and autoimmune disease ) may be required.
- In some cases, immunotherapy with immunoglobins may be tried for a better outcome.
- Eat a well-balanced diet.
- Do regular exercise.
- Avoid drugs, smoking, alcohol, and limit caffeine intake.
- Weight management is very essential for a successful pregnancy.
- Avoid stress and maintaining a healthy lifestyle with proper sleep and a positive approach are a key to success in managing recurrent miscarriages.
Dr Pooja Mehta is the Director and Unit Head of Obstetrics and Gynecology at W. Pratiksha Hospital, Gurgaon. She has 18 years of experience and has an expertise in gynaecological laparoscopic surgeries and has performed many complicated gynaecological laparoscopic and hysteroscopic surgeries. She is a reputed doctor and gives patients her undivided attention. [button color="blue" size="medium" link="https://www.credihealth.com/doctor/pooja-mehta-gynaecologist/overview" icon="" target="true"]Book Appointment[/button]
Reviewed by