The most commonly identified causes include genetic abnormalities, uterine problems, immunologic factors, hormonal disorders, metabolic diseases, and infections. Recurrent early miscarriages (within the first trimester) are most commonly due to genetic or chromosomal problems of the embryo, with 50-80% of spontaneous losses having abnormal chromosomal numbers. Smoking and excessive alcohol can harm a developing baby and may increase the risk of miscarriage. Being overweight increases the risk of miscarriage. Men who have a higher BMI are likely to have poor quality ‘fragmented’ sperm, which causes an increased risk of miscarriage. Obesity and Diabetes in men and women can cause recurrent miscarriages. The risk for recurrent miscarriage increases with age, women 35 years and older. Studies suggest that a father’s age at the time of conception (paternal age) might pose health risks for a baby.

Blood tests for metabolic, hormonal, and immune causes of RPL

Diabetes and other diseases in men and women can cause recurrent miscarriages. At least 15% of recurrent miscarriages occur as a result of Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome, and it is now recognized as the most common, treatable cause. With correct diagnosis and treatment, the pregnancy success rate has risen from 20% before 1990 to around 70-80% today.

Tests for genetic abnormalities in the fetus or parents

Pedigree chart analysis can be done to know if there are any genetic predispositions in the family. Genetic testing of the products of conception from couples experiencing two or more losses may aid in defining the underlying etiology and in counselling patients about prognosis in a subsequent pregnancy. Parental karyotyping of couples who have experienced recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) will detect some couples with an increased likelihood of recurrent fetal aneuploidy; this may direct interventions. The utility of preimplantation genetic analysis in couples with RPL is unproven, but new approaches to this testing show great promise.

Tests for abnormalities in the shape of your uterus

A 3D-4D pelvic ultrasound scan to detect any abnormalities in the shape of your uterus. If an abnormality is suspected, further investigations may include a hysteroscopy (a procedure to examine the uterus through a small telescope that is passed through the vagina and cervix) or a laparoscopy (a procedure in which a surgeon uses a fine telescope to look inside the abdomen and pelvis).

Tests for infection screening

Tests such as blood samples and vaginal swabs may be taken at the time to look for any source of infection. PCR (polymerase chain reaction) tests are a fast, highly accurate way to diagnose certain infectious diseases and genetic changes. The tests work by finding the DNA or RNA of a pathogen (disease-causing organism) or abnormal cells in a sample. Most viruses and other pathogens contain DNA or RNA. Unlike many other tests, PCR tests can find evidence of disease in the earliest stages of infection. Other tests may miss early signs of disease because there aren’t enough viruses, bacteria, or other pathogens in the sample, or your body hasn’t had enough time to develop an antibody response. Antibodies are proteins made by your immune system to attack foreign substances, such as viruses and bacteria. PCR tests can detect disease when there is only a very small amount of pathogens in your body.

STEP-WISE WORK UP at Krishna IVF Clinic :

Based on the detailed history and physical examination, a workup is done in a step-wise approach. It is important to know if nature is expelling an abnormal pregnancy or if the body is rejecting a normal pregnancy. Workup and treatment vary significantly in both these situations. Some may need a pedigree chart analysis before any further investigations. Advanced 3D-4D pelvic ultrasound of the lady is done to rule out uterine abnormalities. CASA and Sperm chromatin tests are done to diagnose malefactors. Genetic tests and infection screening tests will be done after ruling out metabolic, hormonal, or immunological causes. This sequential planning of investigations is beneficial for the couple. Treatment will depend on individual medical history, test results, and current circumstances. Time factor if any and fertility options will be discussed in detail after completing the step-wise workup.