Evaluation and Treatment for Recurrent Miscarriages

Our Rocky Mountain Fertility Center team, led by Infertility Specialist and Reproductive Endocrinologist Dr. Deborah Smith, provides state-of-the-art infertility services in a welcoming, patient-focused environment.

We also focus on providing education that helps you make informed decisions about your health and parenting dreams. Read these facts about recurrent pregnancy loss and the importance of a specialty evaluation when you’ve experienced multiple miscarriages.

What causes recurrent miscarriages?

Possible causes of pregnancy loss vary and may include:

Chromosomal abnormalities

Chromosomal abnormalities can affect the growth and development of a fetus and are a leading cause of miscarriage. Genetic counseling and preimplantation testing before in vitro fertilization (IVF) can identify your risks of having miscarriages due to chromosomal problems..

Structural irregularities

Structural abnormalities of the uterus can make embryo implantation difficult, resulting in miscarriage. 

For instance, a septum in the uterine cavity often results in pregnancy loss. Scarring from a previous surgical procedure or uterine fibroids may also cause miscarriage. Minimally invasive surgery can correct these issues and increase your likelihood of carrying a pregnancy.

Other factors that increase your risk of miscarriage include:

• Immunologic disorders, such as lupus
• Uterine infections
• Blood clotting disorders
• Hormonal imbalance, such as low progesterone

Dr. Smith tells her patients that many couples have an identifiable and treatable cause for recurrent pregnancy loss. 

When should I consider an evaluation for multiple miscarriages?

Dr. Smith and her team believe the timing for an evaluation is a personal decision. Generally, specialists recommend a workup after you’ve experienced two miscarriages in a row. But you may benefit from an evaluation sooner based on your medical history (for example an ultrasound shows you have a septum in your uterus before you get pregnant).

What happens during an evaluation for recurrent miscarriages?

At Rocky Mountain Fertility Center, your evaluation for recurrent miscarriages starts with an in-office exam and careful review of your family history, personal medical history, and current health status.

Depending on those results, Dr. Smith may recommend a hysterosalpingogram (HSG) or saline infusion sonography, which captures ultrasound images of the cervix, uterine cavity, and fallopian tubes. This painless procedure identifies structural abnormalities that may lead to pregnancy loss, occurring in about 13% of women.

Other studies include blood tests to identify antibodies or clotting factors associated with pregnancy loss. 

Dr. Smith then develops a personalized treatment strategy that she carefully explains before proceeding. 

Also, as part of our patient-focused approach to care, our Rocky Mountain Fertility Center team includes Clinical Psychologists who can provide counseling regarding the emotional effects of pregnancy loss.

Schedule an appointment today for more information about recurrent miscarriages or other services we offer. Call our Englewood/Parker, Colorado, office or book your visit using our secure online scheduling service.