It is known that overall 15% of all recognized pregnancies end in miscarriage. Recurrent miscarriage is diagnosed when a woman miscarries 3 consecutive times, before 20 weeks gestation. 

What factors make one prone to recurrent miscarriage?

•     Autoimmune diseases: diseases that affect placental function and disturb early implantation. 

•     Chromosome problems: here, both parents are fine, but when their genes are put together, an unusual gene mismatch occurs that may result in miscarriage.

•     Genetic predispositions for thrombophilias.

•     Maternal infections that may be passed onto the fetus.

•     Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCO)

•     Thyroid hormone imbalances.

What laboratory investigations can be done?

•     Autoimmune tests: ANA, Cardiolipin Antibodies, Lupus

•     Anti-coagulant and TPO.

•     Chromosomal testing: parental blood karyotyping  and (fetal miscarriage tissue where applicable).

•     Tests for thrombophilias: Factor V Leiden, Factor II, MTHFR.

•     Tests for infections: Rubella, CMV, Hepatitis B and C.

•     Hormone profile for PCO: free testosterone and LH.

•     Thyroid testing: TSH, T3, T4 and TPO.

•     Blood group test for Rh factor compatibility for parents.

MedLabs’ Suggested Recurrent Miscarriage Panel

• Cardiolipin Antibodies

• Phospholipid Antibodies

• ANA/ENA

• Sperm Antibodies

• Anti-Thrombin III

• Lupus Anti-Coagulant

• Factor V Leiden (PCR)

• Factor II

• MTHFR

• TSH/TPO

• Protein S Free Antigen

• Protein C Functional

Physician consultation is recommended