Are miscarriages considered a fertility issue?
It’s a common belief that if a woman can become pregnant, she doesn’t have fertility problems. However, multiple miscarriages can indicate a specific fertility issue, affecting around 1-3% of couples.
What qualifies as a fertility issue related to miscarriage?
To be classified as a fertility issue, it typically involves the inability to achieve a successful pregnancy, meaning delivering a healthy baby. While not all miscarriages point to underlying fertility issues, having two or more consecutive miscarriages—known as recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL)—often prompts further investigation into potential causes. Sometimes, fertility specialists may start looking for issues after just one miscarriage.
What causes miscarriages?
Most miscarriages are linked to genetic abnormalities in the embryo, which can be either spontaneous or inherited from one of the parents. Other contributing factors include hormonal issues such as diabetes or thyroid disease, structural problems in the uterus, and specific blood clotting disorders.
Does age affect the risk of miscarriage?
Yes, age plays a significant role. As women get older, the likelihood of having genetically normal eggs decreases. By age 43, it’s estimated that over 90% of remaining eggs are abnormal, leading to a miscarriage risk that exceeds 50% with each pregnancy. However, the age of the uterus doesn’t impact this in the same way; age-related miscarriages can often be addressed using donor eggs.
What can be done to reduce the risk of miscarriage?
The approach to treating recurrent miscarriages depends on the identified causes. Hormonal imbalances should be treated before trying to conceive again, and progesterone support can be beneficial. Uterine issues may be resolved through minor surgery, while blood clotting disorders can often be managed with medications like aspirin or heparin. Genetic issues might be addressed through in vitro fertilization combined with pre-implantation genetic diagnosis, allowing for the selection of genetically normal embryos.
If you’re facing recurrent pregnancy loss, consider scheduling an appointment for personalized support. For more insights, check out this intriguing post about Halloween diaper designs and also visit Make a Mom for expert guidance on your fertility journey. For comprehensive information on pregnancy and related topics, the CDC offers valuable resources.
In summary, while miscarriages can be distressing, understanding their causes and how they relate to fertility is crucial. By addressing underlying issues, couples can enhance their chances of a successful pregnancy.