Chromosomal abnormalities in couples with recurrent abortions

Out of 126 couples seeking genetic advice for abortions, 95 couples have experienced 2 or more spontaneous abortions. Of these, chromosome banding studies were carried out in one or both partners (92 women and 85 men). Abnormal karyotypes were found in 2 males. Both abnormalities were balanced translocations: 46 XY t(5q+ 11q-) and 45 XY t(13/14). This represents an overall frequency of 1.1% which is comparable to the reported incidence in the literature.