Recurrent spontaneous abortion--aetiological factors and subsequent reproductive performance in 76 couples

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine
• Obstetrics & Gynecology
• Clinical Diagnostics

Background:

• Recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA), defined as three or more consecutive pregnancy losses, affects a significant number of couples.
• Identifying etiological factors is crucial for effective management and improving live birth rates.
• Previous studies have indicated various potential causes, but a comprehensive diagnostic approach is often needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of potential etiological factors in couples experiencing recurrent spontaneous abortion.
• To evaluate the success rates of treatments targeting identified abnormalities in recurrent pregnancy loss.

Main Methods:

• A diagnostic screening program was implemented for couples with a history of recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA).
• Evaluated factors included endocervical infections, cervical incompetence, uterine abnormalities, hypothyroidism, and chromosomal abnormalities.
• Pregnancy outcomes were assessed following specific treatments for identified abnormalities.

Main Results:

• An etiological factor was identified in 42% of the 76 evaluated couples.
• Common abnormalities included endocervical infections (18%), cervical incompetence (11%), and uterine abnormalities (9%).
• Treatment success rates were high for uterine abnormality (75%) and cervical incompetence (86%), but lower for infective causes (44%).

Conclusions:

• Diagnostic screening can identify treatable factors contributing to recurrent spontaneous abortion.
• Interventions for structural and mechanical issues like uterine abnormalities and cervical incompetence yield favorable pregnancy outcomes.
• Treatment for endocervical infections shows limited improvement in pregnancy rates compared to untreated cases in recurrent pregnancy loss.