Compassionate recurrent miscarriage management with Dr Mark Livingstone, Sydney fertility specialist

One pregnancy loss is distressing; repeated pregnancy losses are devastating and traumatic. Recurrent miscarriage is defined as two or more pregnancy losses prior to 20 weeks gestation and affects under 5% of couples attempting to conceive.

If you have experienced two or more miscarriages, we recommend you come under the care of a fertility doctor with specialised expertise in recurrent miscarriage management.

What causes recurrent miscarriage?

Several conditions are known to be associated with recurrent pregnancy losses. However, in many cases, no cause can be identified.

The risk of recurrent miscarriage can be increased by:

• Genetic defects in the embryo
• Anatomical abnormalities in the female reproductive system, such as uterine fibroids or cervix insufficiency
• Poorly managed systemic conditions, including diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome, and thyroid dysfunction
• Blood clotting disorders such as antiphospholipid syndrome
• Behavioural factors, including cigarette smoking, recreational drug use, and alcohol consumption during pregnancy

Unfortunately, as many as 75% of situations of recurrent miscarriage are unexplained.

Can recurrent miscarriage be treated?

The management of recurrent pregnancy losses depend on the underlying cause. Mark will conduct a thorough evaluation of your general and reproductive health to guide his management approach.

The causes of miscarriage may be managed with:

• Surgery, such as for uterine fibroids
• Advice and education about lifestyle choices
• Medications to manage blood clotting disorders or contributing systemic conditions and hormonal imbalances

Learn more about your fertility

If you’re undergoing IVF and have experienced miscarriage, Mark may recommend preimplantation genetic diagnosis. This is a genetic test that can help to identify genetically sound embryos for implantation. Embryos with genetic defects are more likely to result in miscarriage or unsuccessful implantation. Learn more about genetic testing