What is Recurrent Miscarriage?
Recurrent miscarriage, defined as the loss of three or more consecutive pregnancies before the 20th week of gestation, is a devastating experience for couples trying to conceive. While the exact causes of recurrent miscarriage can be complex and multifaceted, several factors have been identified as potential contributors:
- Chromosomal Abnormalities: A significant proportion of miscarriages result from chromosomal abnormalities in the embryo, which often occur randomly during cell division. In cases of recurrent miscarriage, there may be underlying genetic factors predisposing to these abnormalities.
- Uterine Abnormalities: Structural abnormalities of the uterus, such as fibroids, septate uterus, or polyps, can increase the risk of recurrent miscarriage by interfering with implantation or proper development of the fetus.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Imbalances in hormones crucial for maintaining pregnancy, such as progesterone and estrogen, can lead to recurrent miscarriage. Thyroid disorders or conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may also play a role.
- Autoimmune Disorders: Disorders where the immune system mistakenly attacks the fetus or the uterine lining, such as antiphospholipid syndrome or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), can increase the risk of recurrent miscarriage.
- Environmental and Lifestyle Factors: Factors such as advanced maternal age, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and exposure to environmental toxins may also contribute to recurrent miscarriage by impairing fertility or increasing the risk of chromosomal abnormalities.
Understanding the underlying causes of recurrent miscarriage often requires a thorough evaluation by healthcare professionals, including genetic testing, hormonal assessments, imaging studies of the uterus, and evaluation of immune function. Treatment strategies may vary depending on the specific cause identified, ranging from lifestyle modifications and hormonal supplementation to surgical interventions or assisted reproductive techniques like in vitro fertilisation (IVF) with preimplantation genetic testing.
How Do I Book My Appointment?
Call the Spire Alexandra Hospital on 01634 687166 and book an appointment in Dr Penman’s outpatient clinic, you can also book your appointment online, following the link below.
You do not need a referral for your GP unless you are using your private medical insurance. Dr Penman has outpatient clinics on Monday, Thursday, and Saturday. He will assess your symptoms and discuss the best treatment and following this, assuming the NovaSure is the best form of treatment, he will then book you in for the procedure, and you can be symptom-free within weeks.