Introduction
“There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you”. If you have faced this experience of miscarriage or stillbirth, it’s likely you’ll be searching for comfort, support, a feeling that you’re not alone and hope. “You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” Remembering the baby and cherishing the time spent together, allowing the possibility of future pregnancies and the strength to navigate through grief.
What is recurrent pregnancy loss?
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss is known as two or more failed pregnancies. It is loss of pregnancies, confirmed both in pregnancy test and ultrasound. Pregnancy loss is surprisingly common. The major consequences of miscarriage before 20 weeks pregnant can cause pain and cramps in the lower stomach area, low back pain and also bleeding from vagina. It can be considered as a rare factor impacting fertility, only 1% out of every 100 couples trying to conceive would experience this. The repeated loss may cause discouragement and emotional pain. It will lead to anxiety, depression, grief, guilt and anger.
CAUSES FOR RECURRENT PREGNANCY LOSS:
Issues in a woman’s uterus can cause problems during pregnancy. Recurrent pregnancy loss can occur due to the following causes.
- Genetic causes: It is a problem developing with an embryo or a genetic condition which affects one or both parents may cause miscarriage. Parental chromosomal component is the main genetic factor for abnormality miscarriage.
- Hormonal imbalance: It is uncontrolled diabetes, thyroid disease, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and hyperprolactinemia.
- Uterine abnormalities: It is Congenital uterine abnormalities, fibroids, polyps or adhesions in the uterus. Asherman syndrome which is known as uterine scar tissues.
- Immune system disorders: Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder that can cause recurrent pregnancy loss. In this the immune system produces antibodies that target phospholipids in cell membranes.
- Lifestyle and environmental factors: These factors that may contribute to recurrent pregnancy loss are smoking, obesity, alcohol consumption, drug use and endocrine disorders and many more.
SYMPTOMS AND SIGNS OF RECURRENT PREGNANCY LOSS:
Common symptoms of early pregnancy loss:
- The most common sign is vaginal bleeding.
- Cramping and pain in the lower tummy or abdomen.
No longer experiencing the symptoms of pregnancy, such as feeling sick and breast tenderness.
HOW TO RECOGNISE AN EARLY MISCARRIAGE?
Light vaginal bleeding is common during the first trimester and does not mean you’re having a miscarriage. Some health conditions or habits can increase the chance of an early miscarriage. It can quickly or it may take up to 3 to 4 weeks to begin.
If you have vaginal bleeding you should contact a doctor or midwife.
DIAGNOSING THE CAUSE OF RECURRENT PREGNANCY LOSS:
The best diagnostic types are given below:
- Genetic testing: To check chromosomal abnormalities, it is better to do karyotyping of both parents.
- Hormonal and blood tests: To check disorders such as diabetes, hormonal abnormalities and thyroid disorders.
- Ultrasound and hysteroscopy: To check the uterine cavity in women using a transvaginal 3D ultrasound. Hysteroscopy is to diagnose and treat intrauterine abnormalities.
- Endometrial Biopsy: To check irregular cells that can indicate infections, fibroids, or polyps.
- Karyotyping: To perform a genetic test on the abortus that analyzes the chromosomes to identify the cause.
TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR RECURRENT PREGNANCY LOSS:
- Lifestyle and preconception care: Encouraging a healthy lifestyle with minimal exposure to the environmental factors. And psychological support will help. Being overweight has been linked with an increased risk of miscarriage. Preconception typically focuses on identifying the medical conditions.
- Medical treatments: It depends on the cause of pregnancy loss and treatments are given accordingly. Treatments can be like medication, surgery and counseling.
- Assisted Reproductive technologies: In this IVF can be an option for the couples experiencing pregnancy loss. Other possibilities can be correcting uterine cavity and cell therapies such as B10.
COPING WITH PREGNANCY LOSS: EMOTIONAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL SUPPORT:
After pregnancy loss, one can seek emotional and psychological support from the health care provider, support groups and other sources.
- Counseling and support groups: One can ask an ob-gyn to help to find a therapist or psychiatrist. Or join a support group, find peer support through online or through volunteer phone-lines.
- Partner communication: Openly expressing your feelings, actively listening to your partner’s emotions, acknowledging that grief can manifest. Pay attention to your partner and try to fix their feelings. Relive positive memories of the pregnancy together to help solidify the reality of the loss and honor the baby.
- Self-care and recovery: Taking care of your body, mind, and emotions. Physical care is eating well, getting enough sleep, and trying light exercises. And also emotional care allows you with positivity. Listen to your body and heart. Accept help from others.
FAQs
What are my chances of a successful pregnancy after multiple miscarriage?
The risk of miscarriage after one is about 20%, after two is about 25% and after three or more is increased to about 30% to 40%.
How soon can I try to conceive again after a miscarriage?
It is generally recommended to wait at least 4-6 weeks before trying to conceive, allow your body to recover and hormone levels to regulate.
What lifestyle changes can improve my chances of a healthy pregnancy?
To improve your chances of a healthy pregnancy, you can make healthy lifestyle choices, such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and managing your weight.
Are there specific tests I should take after two miscarriages?
Yes! If you’ve had two or more miscarriages you can take blood tests for both you and your partner. And also an ultrasound scan to help identify the reason or any genetic tests.
Looking for expert guidance? Visit a trusted miscarriage clinic near you for support and treatment options.
Looking for expert guidance? Visit a trusted miscarriage clinic near you for support and treatment options.