Pregnancy loss is a devastating experience with physical and emotional ramifications that are often poorly tolerated. Unfortunately, spontaneous abortions are relatively common events, experienced by 15-20% of the general pregnant population. When two or more miscarriages are experienced couples often feel depressed and hopeless.
A comprehensive work-up for pregnancy losses typically begins when 2 or more first trimester miscarriages, or one or more second trimester miscarriage(s), are experienced. The work-up often depends on the type (primary versus secondary; first trimester versus second trimester; chromosomal versus non-chromosomal…) and number of prior miscarriages, and usually begins with a careful history of the female and male partners. The work-up continues with a thorough investigation for specific autoimmune, anatomical, hormonal, chromosomal, infectious, thrombophilic and/or spermatogenic factors. If a specific factor is identified as a potential cause of miscarriages, a treatment protocol is customized. In the majority of cases, specialized treatments can significantly reduce a couple’s risk for another miscarriage. Even if no causative factor can be found (up to 50% of couples), empiric treatments do exist which have been shown to help. The California Center for Reproductive Health recognizes the extraordinary impact recurrent pregnancy loss can have on a couple’s well-being. We spare nothing as we investigate to identify potential causes for recurrent miscarriages, and employ only proven safe and effective treatment protocols to address each couple’s unique clinical situation.
