Repeat miscarriage: How many miscarriages is too many?

When you have been attempting to get pregnant without success, a positive pregnancy test often creates excitement, joy and the wonder of possibility. For some women, this happiness is short-lived due to miscarriage, a spontaneous loss of pregnancy before 20 weeks gestation. While one pregnancy loss is devastating for the would-be parents, most women go on to have healthy babies. About 1% of women of reproductive age, however, experience repeat miscarriage, also called recurrent pregnancy loss. Our Tulsa fertility clinic offers hope.

How do we define repeat miscarriage?

The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) identifies recurrent pregnancy loss as two or more failed pregnancies. Once you have had more than one miscarriage, our Tulsa fertility clinic doctors recommend a complete fertility evaluation to pinpoint potential reasons for repeat miscarriage. Fortunately, most women who endure multiple losses end up carrying a pregnancy to term.

Taking the next steps

At your initial appointment with one of our Tulsa fertility clinic doctors, we will review your medical history, order blood work, perform a physical exam, schedule a sonogram, and discuss genetic testing. The results of this workup can guide your doctor toward identifying any potential fertility problems.

Repeat miscarriage can occur because of hormone imbalances, structural anomalies, maternal age, genetic problems, and other contributing factors.

Dealing with recurrent pregnancy loss

Trying to conceive without any luck can feel frustrating. Getting pregnant and losing the baby can create a sense of hopelessness. Consider the following as you navigate this difficult time.

• Practice self-care. After recurrent miscarriage, be gentle with yourself. Try not to let thoughts of guilt or sadness overwhelm your life. Simple things, such as mindfulness, mediation or journaling, may help you channel your feelings in a positive way.
• Keep the faith. While you may feel like you will never have a baby, our doctors have the medical expertise to diagnose and treat the common causes of multiple miscarriages. Focus on the overwhelming odds of succeeding.
• Lean on others. Your family and close friends would probably love to offer you support. Figure out what you need, and let them know what they can do.
• Seek outside help. Joining a support group or meeting with a therapist can give you a safe space to express your grief.

In our Tulsa fertility clinic, we provide help and hope for those dealing with repeat miscarriage. Let our compassionate team provide the skilled medical care you need. Contact our office for more information on recurrent pregnancy loss or to schedule an appointment.