Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), also known as recurrent miscarriage or natural abortion, is medically defined as 3 or more consecutive loss in pregnancy before 20 weeks gestation starting from the last date of the menstrual period.
There can be various reasons that are responsible for the recurrent pregnancy loss and one of the major among them is the immune system.
The immune system of a woman plays an important role in the recurrent loss of pregnancies. Hormone abnormalities can also be the reason for pregnancy loss, which includes diabetes and thyroid disease.
There can also be Abnormalities in the blood clotting of the intended mother that can be responsible for pregnancy loss. If this is the case with you then you need treatment for it that will enhance the chance of having stable pregnancy till delivery.
Tests for Recurrent Pregnancy Loss:
There are few Recurrent Pregnancy Loss testing which are done. Initially, the physician will go for detailed medical, surgical, family history, and genetic history tests. Besides this, a physical examination will also be done.
The uterus and the uterine cavity will be evaluated if required. Hysteroscopy can be done to check the uterus visually and make the removal of fibroids or polyps and scar tissues if any.
MRI may also be recommended for detecting the exact location of the fibroid. Checking of the Antiphospholipid antibodies may also be done for an antiphospholipid syndrome that can be one of the major reasons for pregnancy loss.
Tests for checking ovarian reserve may also be recommended to analyze how well the ovary is capable to function. Diabetes and thyroid tests are commonly done for all cases of recurrent loss of pregnancy.
Treatments:
If a karyotypic abnormality is found in the couple then they may be recommended for genetic counseling where a specialist will explain in detail about the chances of having chromosomally normal and abnormal pregnancy in coming time. Genetic studies may include:
- Chorionic villus sampling (CVS), is done using a piece of placenta which is biopsied at the end of first trimester or beginning of patients second trimester
- Amniocentesis is another process in which a small amount of amniotic fluid is aspirated and sent for genetic analysis
- Preimplantation genetic screening test can also be done at the time of the IVF treatment cycle, where the retrieved eggs will be fertilized with healthy sperm of partner. The cell of the developed embryos will be analyzed for genetic make-up. This is done to avoid the transfer of an affected embryo.
- Surgery may be done for uterine abnormalities if found.
- In case of antiphospholipid antibody syndrome medications will be given for reducing the formation of a blood clot
Corion Fertility Clinic 