Recurrent Miscarriage

Recurrent miscarriage is when a woman suffers more than three first trimester losses, or more than two second trimester losses. Unlike most miscarriages which are caused by problems with that particular pregnancy (either in the foetus itself, or in the pregnancy implanting outside the uterus), recurrent miscarriages are usually due to problems with one or both parents. Many of these pregnancies may otherwise have been viable. 

Conditions which might contribute to recurrent miscarriage include: incompetent cervix; autoimmune disorders in the mother; uterine abnormalities and genetic chromosomal defects. 

There are recurrent miscarriage clinics run in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch to help women who have experienced recurrent miscarriage. Services they provide include prenatal testing to exclude genetic abnormalities, screening for autoimmune/antibodies and post-loss testing to try and establish the cause of the recurring miscarriages. They also provide support and resources for women during subsequent pregnancies to minimize the risk of miscarriage. 

If you have suffered from recurrent miscarriages and wish to be referred to one of the recurrent miscarriage clinics, talk to your GP or specialist.