A look at the link between age and recurrent miscarriage
Age and recurrent miscarriage have a strong relationship. As a woman ages, the risk of miscarriage increases. Miscarriages typically occur in the first trimester. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 9-17% of pregnancies in women under 30 result in miscarriage. By the age of 35, 20% of pregnancies result in miscarriage. This number then increases to 40% by age 40 and 80% by age 45.
Thankfully, our New Braunfels fertility doctor offers diagnosis and treatment that may help hopeful parents bring home a healthy baby.
The causes of miscarriage
Most miscarriages, especially those in older women, are due to chromosomal abnormalities in the embryo. Chromosomes are the structures of genetic material that a baby inherits from the mother and father. When the egg and sperm come together, cells begin to divide rapidly. As these divisions occur, mistakes can happen.
In women under 35, about half of embryos are chromosomally abnormal. The percentage of abnormal embryos increases with age, especially in the late-30s and 40s. Most chromosomally abnormal embryos will never implant in the uterus. Those that do usually result in miscarriage.
Age and recurrent miscarriage – diagnosis and treatment
Because a single miscarriage is very common at any age, an extensive work-up is usually not valuable unless you have had at least two miscarriages. However, if you have had two or more miscarriages or are in your late-30s or 40s, you should schedule an appointment with our New Braunfels fertility doctor.
Depending on your testing results, there may be different treatment options. These will vary depending on individual circumstances. For example, Dr. Hudson may recommend expectant management with progesterone support and early monitoring. In other cases, she may suggest IVF with preimplantation genetic testing (PGT). This treatment allows you to know that the embryo in your uterus is chromosomally normal, thereby decreasing your risk of miscarriage.
If you have concerns about age and recurrent miscarriage, our New Braunfels fertility doctor can provide treatments to help you lower your risk of miscarriage and potentially shorten the time until you welcome a healthy baby. Contact us to schedule an appointment.