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Risk factors for spontaneous abortion.
F Parazzini1, L Bocciolone, L Fedele
1Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche 'Mario Negri', Milano, Italy.
International Journal of Epidemiology
|March 1, 1991
Summary
Family history of recurrent miscarriage and current smoking are significant risk factors for spontaneous abortions. Later menarche age also correlates with reduced miscarriage risk, suggesting lifestyle and genetic factors influence pregnancy outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) affects a significant portion of women, necessitating identification of associated risk factors.
- Previous research has explored various factors, but a comprehensive understanding of modifiable and non-modifiable risks for unexplained RSA remains crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate potential risk factors for spontaneous abortions in women with a history of unexplained recurrent miscarriages.
- To differentiate risk factors by comparing cases with a history of recurrent miscarriages to controls with successful term pregnancies.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study design was employed, including 94 women with unexplained recurrent miscarriages (cases) and 176 women with normal deliveries (controls).
- Data collection involved questionnaires on personal characteristics, habits, gynecological history, and family history.
- Statistical analysis included relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) to assess associations.
Main Results:
- A family history of recurrent miscarriage was significantly associated with an increased risk (RR = 3.2, 95% CI = 1.3-8.1).
- Later age at menarche demonstrated a statistically significant trend towards reduced miscarriage risk (RR=0.5 for age 14+ vs. ≤11).
- Current smoking was associated with a ~40% increased risk of miscarriage, with risk escalating with the number of cigarettes smoked daily.
Conclusions:
- Family history of recurrent miscarriage and current smoking are identified as significant risk factors for spontaneous abortions.
- Age at menarche may represent a protective factor, with later onset associated with lower risk.
- Sociodemographic factors, reproductive history, contraceptive use, and general lifestyle habits like alcohol or coffee consumption were not found to be associated with miscarriage risk in this study.