Recurrent Miscarriages
Trying to conceive may be harder for some couples than others. It is common for women to experience a miscarriage. Most miscarriages happen in the first trimester and are usually the result of a chromosomal or genetic abnormality. However, some women face recurrent miscarriages. Recurrent miscarriage is when a woman has three or more miscarriages. The sadness and depression can last a long time. It becomes frustrating trying to find the cause of them.
Low progesterone is one issue that can cause an early miscarriage. Your body needs progesterone to sustain the pregnancy until the placenta takes over at around 12 or 13 weeks. You can have your doctor draw blood to determine whether or not your body is producing an adequate amount of progesterone. The good news is that this type of problem is easy to treat. If it’s determined that you have low progesterone your doctor will recommend that you take progesterone supplements either orally or by suppository. Most insurance companies will pay for this treatment. There is some research out there that suggests taking progesterone may not help although most OB/GYN offices will prescribe it.
Abnormalities in the uterus can also cause recurrent miscarriages. An irregular shaped uterus or endometriosis could be the source of the problem. Also women who have blocked fallopian tubes or a lot of scar tissue have trouble getting and staying pregnant. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PSOS) is another condition that may cause repeated miscarriage. Women who have PCOS have an abnormal amount of male hormones in their body. It causes fertility issues as well as increased chance of miscarriage.
There is also evidence that lack of folate in the diet can affect fertility and miscarriage. Women low in folate can take a folate supplement prescribed by their physician. Other disorders such as thyroid problems, diabetes and endocrine disorders are also linked to repeated miscarriage.
Unfortunately most OB/GYN’s won’t perform any testing on a woman until she has had at least three miscarriages. Once they begin testing, they usually start with blood tests and ultrasounds. Seeing a genetic counselor and getting a full work up can sometimes help. They will test both you and your husband or partner to see if you carry a chromosomal defect or genetic risk factor.
For women, going through repeated miscarriages can be a depressing time. Sometimes the cause of the recurrent loss will never be found and they will eventually go on to get pregnant and have a healthy baby. Other women may not be as lucky and the cause of the problem will be identified but untreatable or difficult to treat.
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