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Understanding Recurrent Miscarriages

Helpful tools

What Are Recurrent Miscarriages?

  • Definition: Recurrent Miscarriages (RM) or Recurrent Pregnancy Losses (RPL) are defined as having two or more consecutive pregnancy losses before 20 weeks of gestation by Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG)
  • Prevalence: According to RANZCOG, approximately 1% - 4% of couples experience recurrent miscarriages, affecting both physical and emotional well-being.
  • Emotional Impact: We understand that repeated pregnancy loss can lead to stress, anxiety, and uncertainty, making early guidance and support essential.
     

Why Do Recurrent Miscarriages Happen?

  • Genetic Factors: Chromosomal abnormalities in embryos can be a significant contributor.
  • Uterine Issues: Structural problems like fibroids, septum, or scar tissue may interfere with implantation.
  • Hormonal Imbalances: Thyroid disorders or luteal phase defects can increase miscarriage risk.
  • Immune and Blood Disorders: Conditions such as antiphospholipid syndrome can affect pregnancy maintenance.
  • Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol, obesity, and uncontrolled stress can also play a role.

Who Has A Higher Risk of Recurrent Miscarriages?

  • Women Over 35: Maternal age increases the likelihood of chromosomal abnormalities.
  • Couples With Previous Miscarriages: Risk of recurrence is higher after two or more pregnancy losses.
  • Individuals With Underlying Health Conditions: Thyroid disorders, diabetes, or clotting disorders require careful monitoring.

When Should You Seek Help?

  • After Two Miscarriages: It is recommended to consult a fertility specialist after two consecutive losses.
  • During Preconception Planning: Early fertility assessment can help identify risks and improve pregnancy outcomes.

How Can Couples Reduce the Risk of Recurrent Miscarriages?

  • Comprehensive Fertility Assessment: Blood tests, hormonal tests, and uterine imaging.
  • Genetic Counselling: Identify potential chromosomal issues in both partners.
  • Lifestyle Optimisation: Balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management.
  • Advanced Testing Techniques: Combine IVF treatment with PGT-A 

How PGT-A Can Help Patients To Reduce Miscarriage Risk?

Pre-implantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A):

  • Helps identify embryos with chromosomal abnormalities before transfer.
  • Increases the likelihood of a healthy pregnancy, reducing the emotional burden of repeated miscarriages.

Who Should Consider PGT-A?

PGT-A is usually for:

  • Women over 35 years old
  • Couples with multiple IVF failures
  • Couples with recurrent miscarriages
  • Couples who want to reduce the risk of having a baby with chromosome abnormality such as Down’s Syndrome

Want to know about PGT-A? Click here to learn more.

Is recurrent miscarriage only a female issue?

No. Male genetic factors and sperm quality can also contribute, making assessment of both partners essential.

Who should consider PGT-A during IVF?

PGT-A is commonly recommended for individuals or couples who: 

  • are of advanced maternal age
  • have experienced recurrent miscarriages
  • have had repeated implantation failure
  • previously had pregnancies affected by chromosomal abnormalities
  • want to prioritise the most viable embryos 

At Sunfert, we aim to ensure that any additional procedures are only advised when there is clear clinical benefit, so patients are not undergoing or paying for steps that are not necessary for their fertility journey and treatment.

Can PGT-A guarantee a successful pregnancy?

No, PGT-A does not guarantee pregnancy. While it improves the selection of chromosomally normal embryos and increases the implantation rate, other factors such as uterine health, embryo quality, and overall medical conditions also influence the overall IVF success rates.

How long does it take to get PGT-A results?

PGT-A results are typically available within 2 to 3 weeks after the embryo biopsy.
This timeframe allows for detailed genetic analysis and accurate reporting to guide the next step in the IVF treatment plan.

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The Biological Clock

This tool indicates:

  • Natural conception per month if you have no fertility issues
  • IVF success rate at the same age
  • When to seek help after months of unsuccessful attempts

If you are concerned at any stage – we recommend booking a doctor appointment or a free nurse consultation. The sooner you make a plan the better your chances in the long term.

When to seek advice early

If you have polycystic ovaries, endometriosis, or have been through a cancer diagnosis; we recommend you get in touch quickly so we can talk you through all your options and give you the greatest possible chance of success.

If you’re a single woman considering motherhood in the future; it’s best to approach us early and consider egg freezing as this can be an option for you while you have a higher ovarian reserve and healthier eggs.

Set your age and the months you’ve been trying to conceive
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Your chance of having a baby per month for fertile couples
Your chance of having a baby per IVF cycle (if experiencing infertility)

Body Mass Index calculator

Being overweight or underweight can reduce fertility, so it is important to keep your body weight within the normal healthy range.

Body Mass Index (BMI) is an indication of your body weight and can be calculated by dividing weight by height. You should aim for a BMI of between 20 and 25, as this will optimise your chances of conception.

Woman’s BMI below 19

Even in these modern times, nature knows best. If a woman's BMI falls below 19, the body senses famine and ovulation is switched off to prevent the risk of having a baby with malnutrition. Excessive exercise can reduce body fat and increase muscle mass to a point where periods cease for the same reason. Risk of miscarriage is also increased in women with a low BMI.

Being underweight

If a woman's BMI falls below 19, the body senses famine and ovulation is switched off to prevent the risk of having a baby with malnutrition. Excessive exercise can reduce body fat and increase muscle mass to a point where periods cease for the same reason. Risk of miscarriage is also increased in women with a low BMI.

BMI’s greater than 30

This can reduce fertility by 50%. Pregnancy for women with a 30+ BMI is often associated with problems such as maternal diabetes, high blood pressure, big babies and increased risk of caesarean section.

Add your height and weight to calculate your BMI
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