Miscarriages are more common than many people realize, and in most cases, they are due to biological causes that cannot be prevented and are not related to the woman’s behavior. However, when pregnancy losses recur, it is advisable to undergo an evaluation to identify whether there is any factor that may be contributing and to assess the available treatment options.
Understanding why these losses may occur and knowing when it is necessary to consult a specialist can help you face this situation with greater awareness and peace of mind.
What Is a Miscarriage?
A miscarriage is defined as the involuntary loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week of gestation. It is estimated that 10% of clinically recognized pregnancies end spontaneously, most of them during the first trimester.
A single miscarriage does not necessarily mean that there is a fertility problem, nor does it imply that it will recur in future pregnancies.
What are the most common causes of a miscarriage?
Chromosomal abnormalities in the embryo are the most common cause of miscarriage in the first weeks of pregnancy. These are changes that prevent the pregnancy from developing properly and that, in most cases, occur randomly.
In addition, there are other factors that can increase the risk of pregnancy loss, such as certain abnormalities of the uterine cavity, endocrine disorders, coagulation disorders, some autoimmune diseases, or environmental factors.
Even so, it is not always possible to identify the cause of a miscarriage, especially in the case of an isolated loss.
When is a miscarriage considered recurrent?
Recurrent miscarriage, also known as repeated miscarriage, is defined as the loss of two or more consecutive pregnancies.
When pregnancy losses recur, it is advisable to conduct an evaluation to try to identify the factors that may be contributing and to assess the most appropriate treatment options for each case.
The evaluation must always be individualized and take into account factors such as age, medical and reproductive history, and the course of previous pregnancies.
What tests can be performed to investigate recurrent miscarriages?
Depending on each couple’s specific circumstances, the specialist may recommend various tests to try to identify the cause of the pregnancy losses, including:
- Genetic testing of the couple.
- Hormonal and immunological tests.
- Tests to evaluate the uterine cavity, such as specialized ultrasound or hysteroscopy.
- Male factor evaluation, which may include the assessment of certain semen parameters.
Although in some cases it is not possible to identify a specific cause, completing this evaluation helps rule out the most common abnormalities, guide follow-up care, and plan for a new pregnancy on an individualized basis.
What treatments are available for recurrent miscarriages?
There is no single treatment for recurrent miscarriages. The strategy must always be tailored to the identified cause and the circumstances of each patient.
When a treatable factor is detected, management is tailored to correct it. When it is not possible to identify a specific cause, close follow-up and individualized planning for a new pregnancy remain a fundamental part of the approach.
At Barcelona IVF, we address recurrent miscarriage on an individualized basis, combining a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation with personalized follow-up. Our goal is to provide each patient with clear information, a plan tailored to her circumstances, and the necessary support throughout the entire process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a spontaneous miscarriage mean I’ll have trouble getting pregnant again?
No. Most women who experience a single spontaneous miscarriage go on to have a successful pregnancy without needing treatment.
When is it recommended to investigate recurrent miscarriages?
Major clinical guidelines recommend initiating an investigation after two or more pregnancy losses, always taking into account each patient’s specific characteristics and medical history.
Is the cause of recurrent miscarriages always identified?
No. In a certain percentage of cases, it is not possible to identify a specific cause, even after completing the evaluation. Even so, this information helps guide follow-up care and plan for pregnancy on an individualized basis.
