Recurrent Pregnancy Loss or Miscarriage

Recurrent Pregnancy Loss or Miscarriage


Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), also known as recurrent miscarriage, is typically defined as two or more consecutive pregnancy losses before 20 weeks of gestation. It's a deeply emotional and complex medical condition that can have various underlying causes.

Causes of Recurrent Pregnancy Loss

Most common in early miscarriages.

Balanced translocations in one partner (chromosomal rearrangements without loss of genetic material).

Embryonic aneuploidy (abnormal number of chromosomes).

2. Anatomical Abnormalities

Uterine anomalies like septate uterus, fibroids, polyps, or adhesions.

Cervical insufficiency (especially for second-trimester losses).

3. Endocrine Disorders

Thyroid dysfunction (especially hypothyroidism or Hashimoto's)

Uncontrolled diabetes

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) with insulin resistance

Luteal phase defect (controversial but sometimes considered)

4. Immunologic Factors

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) – the most well-documented immune cause

Possible role of natural killer cells, HLA compatibility, etc., but evidence is still evolving

Thrombophilia

Inherited or acquired conditions causing blood clotting abnormalities can impair placental function

Evaluation of RPL

Work-up generally begins after two or more miscarriages:

Karyotyping of both partners

Ultrasound or hysteroscopy to assess uterine anatomy

Blood tests: thyroid function, antiphospholipid antibodies, thrombophilia panel

Endometrial biopsy (sometimes) to rule out chronic endometritis

MAke an appointment