Recurrent pregnancy loss Around 1 in 25 Australian couples are devastated by recurrent pregnancy loss. This experience can be traumatic and cause significant anxiety and distress. Effectively investigating and managing the underlying causes of recurrent pregnancy loss often requires specific expertise.

What causes recurrent pregnancy loss?

Identifying the cause of your recurrent miscarriage is integral to planning our next steps and maximising your chances of a successful pregnancy. While not all cases of recurrent pregnancy loss have a clear underlying cause, our philosophy at Flow Fertility is to leave no stone unturned during investigations or when exploring treatment options.

Some of the main causes of recurrent miscarriage are:

Chromosomal abnormalities in the embryo
Misdirected immune system activity targeting the embryo’s cells
Conditions of the uterus, including fibroids or adhesions
Endocrine disorders causing a hormonal imbalance, such as thyroid dysfunction or polycystic ovary syndrome
Antiphospholipid syndrome, a blood clotting disorder
Sperm DNA fragmentation

Recurrent pregnancy loss treatment with Dr Gavin Sacks

Dr Sacks has a specialised interest in the management of recurrent pregnancy loss, combining compassionate care with his advanced expertise and pioneering research.

A comprehensive assessment of the causative factors for your situation may involve genetic testing; medical imaging techniques to examine your uterus; blood tests for hormone imbalances, blood clotting problems, or abnormal immune activity; and sperm DNA fragmentation testing.

Based on the results of his thorough investigations, Dr Sacks can tailor a treatment plan to improve your chances of success with your next pregnancy. He may recommend:

IVF with PGT Undergoing IVF to take advantage of preimplantation genetic testing, enabling us to select chromosomally normal embryos for transfer
The Bondi Protocol The Bondi Protocol, an innovative treatment designed by Dr Sacks himself to address an overactive immune system
Surgery Surgery to treat any uterine conditions
Medical treatment Medical treatment for endocrine conditions or hormonal imbalances
Heparin and/or aspirin Heparin and/or aspirin blood thinning medication as treatment for antiphospholipid syndrome

Frequently Asked Questions

Can lifestyle factors contribute to recurrent miscarriage?

Yes, some lifestyle choices such as cigarette smoking, recreational drug use, and excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of pregnancy loss. However, while these factors do play a role, the majority of cases of recurrent miscarriage are due to causes outside of your control, such as genetics or an overactive immune system.

Can I do anything to prevent miscarriage?

If testing reveals a cause to your recurrent pregnancy losses, such as antiphospholipid syndrome or a hormonal disorder, we can treat this to improve your chances of a successful pregnancy. Adhering to lifestyle recommendations such as avoiding alcohol, illicit drugs, and smoking, as well as keeping within a healthy weight range can also support a successful pregnancy.

What can I do if no cause of my recurrent miscarriage can be found?

Unfortunately, a significant number of couples who experience recurrent pregnancy loss will never get an answer as to the underlying cause. However, there are often still options for having a baby, such as through IVF or other assisted reproductive techniques, including with donor eggs or sperm.

What causes recurrent pregnancy loss?

Recurrent pregnancy loss treatment with Dr Gavin Sacks

Frequently Asked Questions

Speak with Dr Gavin Sacks