Recurrent Pregnancy Loss Program
Our team of pathologists, geneticists, and perinatologists uses a holistic approach and specialized care to help couples with recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) and/or recurrent miscarriages.
A multidisciplinary approach to diagnosing and treating any potential underlying cause(s) of the recurrent losses can be very effective, and also provide much-needed empathy and emotional support that couples who have experienced RPL require.
Our program utilizes a team of providers, including reproductive endocrinologists, maternal fetal medicine specialists, a pathologist specializing in fetal loss, genetic counselors, a social worker, a dietitian, and a staff of experienced nurses to help couples with RPL navigate through the diagnosis and treatment of this disorder.
Our Approach
We offer a comprehensive and individualized approach to couples with RPL, which is traditionally defined as the loss of three or more consecutive pregnancies prior to 20 weeks of gestation.While some definitions are limited to clinically identified pregnancies (those seen by ultrasound or under the microscope), biochemical pregnancies (those identified only by sensitive pregnancy tests) may also be included.
The initial evaluation includes a visit with a perinatologist and a reproductive immunologist, with other consultants available as needed. Even when no specific cause for the repeated losses can be identified, very close monitoring and support of a subsequent pregnancy is likely to result in a favorable outcome.
There are many types of assisted reproductive technologies available to RPL couples. In cases where there is a shortage of eggs or the majority of eggs are damaged—leading to increased miscarriage risk—egg donation can be considered.Alternatively, if the sperm is problematic, donor sperm can be utilized.Finally, in cases where the uterus is affected by congenital or acquired factors that cannot be reversed, a gestational carrier can be used to carry the pregnancy that is generated from the egg and the sperm of the couple with RPL.
