What are the risk factors for recurrent miscarriage?

Antiphospholipid syndrome is an immune-related condition that can promote abnormal blood clotting and affect the placenta or developing pregnancy. Chromosomal abnormalities can arise in an embryo or may be linked to a rearrangement in a parent’s chromosomes; this does not mean either parent caused the loss.

A uterine septum is a partition of tissue inside the uterus. Its shape and size can affect where a pregnancy implants or how the uterus supports pregnancy. Other health conditions, increasing age, and lifestyle exposures may also be considered during an assessment, but a clear cause is not found for every person with recurrent pregnancy loss.

Arrange an appointment with an obstetrician, gynaecologist, or fertility specialist to review your pregnancy history and medical background. Assessment may include blood tests for antiphospholipid antibodies, imaging of the uterus, and genetic testing or counselling when appropriate. Bring dates and records from previous pregnancies, including ultrasound or laboratory results if you have them.

Do not start aspirin, heparin, hormones, or other treatment without clinical advice. Treatment depends on the finding: a confirmed immune condition, a uterine septum, and a chromosomal explanation require different discussions. Emotional support or counselling can also help after repeated loss.

During a pregnancy, seek urgent medical care for heavy vaginal bleeding, severe or one-sided abdominal pain, fainting, marked dizziness, fever, or shoulder-tip pain. These symptoms need prompt assessment because miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, infection, or significant blood loss can require immediate treatment. After a loss, contact a clinician for persistent heavy bleeding, worsening pain, fever, or foul-smelling discharge.

Ask which tests are suitable for your history, whether antiphospholipid syndrome or a uterine septum should be assessed, and whether genetic counselling could clarify a chromosomal finding. You can also ask what symptoms should prompt urgent care in a future pregnancy and which treatments, if any, would be appropriate.