Multiple Miscarriages

Pain Upon Pain-We Need Help--Why Multiple Miscarriage

Any couple who has gone through a miscarriage will attest to the trauma and devastation that accompanies the experience. Those who have endured more than one miscarriage may not only be traumatized but may be suffering from a feeling of hopelessness as well. Suffering more than one miscarriage is a pretty good indication that a visit to a fertility specialist is in order since recurring miscarriage is very often an indication of an underlying fertility problem. A fertility specialist can help the couple discover the problem and establish treatment to enable a successful pregnancy.

Miscarriage Is Not Uncommon, When It Happens Once

Miscarriage is not unusual nor is it necessarily a major concern medically if it has happened only once. About 15 to 20 percent of all pregnancies end in loss and of them, nearly 75 percent occur within the first trimester of pregnancy. The risk of losing a pregnancy decreases after the first miscarriage. However, if there is a second miscarriage, then the risk increases and continues to rise for all future pregnancies. Pregnancies that are lost in the first 12 weeks are thought to be due to chromosomal abnormalities. However, that is not the only explanation for miscarriage and many of the other factors, if left untreated, will cause future miscarriages.

The Effects Of Hormones On Miscarriage

Hormone levels must be at a normal level in order to allow for the fertilized egg to implant properly in the uterus. When they are abnormal or inconsistent, then problems with implantation or the endometrial lining may ensue. Women who have thyroid or adrenal gland issues and diabetic women may have increased risk of miscarriage since there is a tendency for them to have hormone levels that are unbalanced and out of sync. It is important for them to make sure they are being treated for their disorders and managing their conditions properly.

Infections and Toxins Can Be Lethal To Pregnancy

Infections such as sexually transmitted diseases like herpes and Chlamydia and rubella (German measles) can cause difficulty in reproduction. The infections interfere with fetal development and if left untreated will cause a miscarriage.

Exposure to environmental and chemical toxins such as benzene, ethylene, oxide, lead and formaldehyde, have been attributed to causing miscarriage. Other environmental toxins, including alcohol, tobacco, caffeine and marijuana, have all been proven to affect fetal development and are also associated with an increased risk of miscarriage. A woman does have control over the use of these toxins and can lower exposure or avoid them all together.

Other Possible Causes Of Miscarriage

There is an immunologic problem associated with miscarriage called antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) in which blood clots form and inhibit the proper development of the baby. There are also instances where the body views the baby as a foreign entity and rather than protecting the baby, the immune system attacks the "invader" in an effort to restore health to the woman's body. Instances such as this are very rare.

After the age of 35, the risk for genetic problems increases in women who get pregnant, as does the risk of miscarriage. A weak cervix is an almost certain cause of miscarriage as well. As the baby grows, the weight on the cervix increases and if the cervix is weak, there will undoubtedly be preterm labor and possible miscarriage.