Recurrent miscarriage syndrome and infertility caused by blood coagulation protein or platelet defects

Recurrent miscarriage syndrome and infertility are common problems in the United States. Recurrent miscarriage affects more than 500,000 women annually. If properly screened through a cost-effective protocol, the cause will be found in almost all women. The most common singular defect in women with RMS is a hemostasis defect, and if a thorough APLS evaluation is performed, the most common of these is found to be APLS. Other hereditary and acquired procoagulant defects are also commonly found, if looked for. It is important to evaluate women with RMS appropriately, because if a cause for the RMS is found, most women will achieve normal-term delivery. Hemorrhagic defects are rare hemostasis causes of RMS, but these defects also are treatable in many instances and should be considered in appropriate women. Treatment of the common procoagulant defects consists of preconception low-dose ASA at 81 mg/day followed by immediate postconception low-dose unfractionated porcine heparin. LMWH may be a suitable alternative.