Understanding Recurrent Pregnancy Loss Causes & Treatments

Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) affects 1-3% of couples and is linked to genetic, hormonal, and structural factors. Women over 43 face over 50% miscarriage risk due to declining egg quality. Treatments include hormonal therapy, uterine surgery, blood thinners, and IVF with genetic screening to prevent chromosomal abnormalities.

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Key Takeaways

Recurrent Pregnancy Loss as a Fertility Issue Defined

Two or more consecutive miscarriages (RPL) are classified as a fertility problem, impacting 1-3% of couples. Fertility specialists may investigate causes after a single loss if risk factors exist.

Common Causes of Miscarriage: Genetic, Hormonal, and Structural Factors

Most miscarriages stem from embryo genetic abnormalities, but hormonal imbalances (e.g., diabetes, thyroid disease), uterine structural issues (e.g., septum), and clotting disorders like antiphospholipid syndrome also contribute.

Age-Related Risk of Miscarriage: Egg Quality Decline After 40

By age 43, over 90% of a woman’s remaining eggs are genetically abnormal, causing miscarriage risk to exceed 50% per pregnancy. Donor eggs can bypass this age-related risk.

Hormonal & Uterine Treatments to Reduce Miscarriage Risk

Addressing hormonal imbalances (e.g., thyroid dysfunction) before conception and using progesterone support can mitigate risks. Minor surgeries like hysteroscopy correct uterine abnormalities linked to miscarriage.

IVF with Pre-Implantation Genetic Diagnosis to Prevent Genetic Abnormalities

IVF combined with pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) allows testing embryos for chromosomal abnormalities, ensuring only genetically normal embryos are implanted to reduce miscarriage risk.

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