Can I Have a Successful Pregnancy After Recurrent Miscarriage?

Many women who experience recurrent miscarriage wonder whether successful pregnancy and delivery are possible. Studies show that more than 80% of the time it is possible to have a baby, even after two or more miscarriages.

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists {ACOG}, 10%-25% of clinically recognized pregnancies end in miscarriage, which is the loss of pregnancy during the first trimester. This means you’re not alone. However, being in good company does not lessen the emotional turmoil that women undergo when a miscarriage occurs. Having recurrent miscarriage can also lead you to doubt your fertility, even if the cause(s) of your multiple miscarriages is unrelated to your ability to conceive.

Common causes of miscarriage

A chromosomal abnormality is often the culprit of a first-trimester miscarriage. A damaged egg or sperm cell, or a problem occurring during the zygote division process, can lead to miscarriage within the first several weeks of gestation. Other causes include lifestyle choices — such as drinking, drug use and smoking — and maternal age.

If the cause of your miscarriage is known, chances are repeats can be prevented with targeted supportive care. Changing your lifestyle to one that fosters pregnancy is a good first step. You should abstain from using illegal drugs, consuming alcohol and smoking (including vaping) when you’re trying to conceive.

Furthermore, undergoing genetic, uterine cavity, hematologic, immunologic and hormonal testing can go a long way toward determining what pharmacological and medical intervention might help you complete a successful pregnancy. Even when the cause of your recurrent miscarriage is unknown — which is true in 50%-75% of miscarriages — your prognosis for completing a successful pregnancy might still be favorable with support from our team of knowledgeable fertility specialists. We can’t turn back the clock, but we can help you put your best foot forward.

Take care of you

Many women and couples who experience miscarriage subsequently feel hopeless and depressed. It’s important to treat these symptoms as you would any reaction to extreme loss. Eat well, exercise and even consider visiting a therapist. Postpartum Support Virginia, MIS Share, and other organizations provide access to support groups and resources for loss of pregnancy in Greater Washington, D.C., and the state of Virginia.

The sooner you heal your body, mind, heart, and soul, the sooner you’ll be able to try again. When you’re ready to get compassionate reproductive help after recurrent miscarriage, schedule a consultation with one of our fertility specialists.