Losses of pregnancies within the first 20 weeks of gestation are called miscarriages. Advanced maternal age is an important factor in miscarriages. We talk about recurrent miscarriages when 3 or more consecutive miscarriages occur. About 1% of women experience recurrent miscarriages.
Causes of Recurrent Miscarriages
• Structural defects of the uterus and cervical insufficiency
• Chromosomal disorders
• Infections
• Hormonal disorders
• Immune system disorders
• Environmental and other factors
Some tests can help determine the cause of recurrent miscarriages. These tests are as follows:
• Karyotyping, i.e. chromosome analysis
• Ultrasonography, uterine x-ray (HSG) and hysteroscopy to diagnose uterine problems.
• Blood tests to examine antiphospholipid antibodies (lupus anticoagulant, anticardiolipin antibodies) in order to reveal immunological causes
• Thyroid tests, fasting blood glucose or oral glucose tolerance tests.
• Blood tests to reveal thrombophilia (antidrombin III, protein C, protein S, homocysteine, factor V Leiden mutation).
• Vaginal culture for infections.
What are the symptoms of a miscarriage?
The most common symptom of a miscarriage is vaginal bleeding. Bleeding can start in the form of light stains, then get heavier and clot. Mild to severe cramps can be experienced. An ultrasound examination is enough to diagnose a miscarriage. Tissue may be passed with increased bleeding. In such cases, if there is no tissue remaining on the ultrasound, and if bleeding has stopped, an abortion may not be necessary. However, in other cases, the tissue is only partly discharged; in these cases, the remaining tissue in the uterus should be eliminated through abortion.
Recurrent miscarriages and IVF
Close to 5% of couples wishing to have children suffer from recurrent miscarriages. An IVF treatment may help achieve pregnancy when recurrent miscarriages are due to genetic causes. In the treatment of recurrent miscarriages, the steps to be followed are those of a regular IVF. The PGD test (preimplantation genetic diagnosis) is performed on the embryos obtained; and the healthiest embryo is selected for transfer. Thus, the chance of healthy pregnancy is increased.
Through the personalised treatment methods implemented in our centres, the cause of miscarriages is determined and the most appropriate treatment method for the prospective mother is planned. Our advanced embryology laboratory and the rigorous studies of our expert physicians and embryologists can help to achieve successful pregnancies even in difficult cases. You can contact us to request detailed information about recurrent miscarriages, the treatment procedure, and to have a pre-consultation with one of our doctors.
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