Recurrent Spontaneous Abortions

QUESTION: What can be done for a woman who has recurrent spontaneous
abortions?
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ANSWER: Spontaneous abortions are also called miscarriages by many people,
and they are defined as any loss of pregnancy prior to 20 weeks' gestational
age. Approximately 15 percent of all recognized pregnancies end in
spontaneous abortion. Many more spontaneous abortions occur during the very
early stages of pregnancy, before the pregnancy is recognized. Recurrent
spontaneous abortions are a problem for one in 200 couples. About 60 percent
of these couples have a problem that can be diagnosed.
The reasons for recurrent spontaneous abortions include environmental,
genetic, immune, anatomic or hormone factors, or a combination of these. If a
couple has two consecutive spontaneous abortions, it is time for a careful
history and physical examination to try to determine the cause. Both partners
should be part of this treatment. Tests for infection, hormone balance and
genetic abnormalities may be performed. The couple should be asked about
environmental factors that may be contributing to the problem, and factors
such as diet, activity and smoking should be discussed.
Women with a tendency to abort should make every effort to diagnose a
pregnancy early, so that the pregnancy can be monitored closely. Early and
complete prenatal care is sometimes helpful in avoiding continued problems.
If you have a friends or family members who have suffered a spontaneous
abortion, be sensitive to their feelings. Husband and wife are likely to need
your understanding and support more than they can tell you at this time. Talk
with them. Ask them how you can help. They need to know that you care. It
is amazing how much good just the expression of your concern can accomplish,
and you'll feel better too.