Recurrent miscarriage is by definition three or more consecutive pregnancy losses.  A miscarriage occurs after an embryo successfully implants and the pregnancy has shown to be positive with a pregnancy test or ultrasound.  Defective embryos is a sign that there is something wrong with either the egg or sperm.  Exposure to radiation and toxic chemicals are examples of things that can cause the embryo to become unviable.  When there are some chromosomal abnormalities, but not enough to make the embryo unviable, then the result is genetic disorders like Down’s Syndrome.  An older woman (>35) does have a higher chance of miscarriage.  However, studies show that younger women with older men (> 35) also have a higher rate of miscarriage indicating that age is also a factor for men.  It only makes sense that women and men will produce healthy offspring when they are younger, stronger and more healthy.  This is natures way of protecting the gene pool.

Recurrent miscarriage can be due to uterine malformations or cervical incompetence, hormonal imbalance, genetic abnormalities in the parents, uterine infection or autoimmune disorder.  Diseases that are associated with recurrent miscarriages are Diabetes, thyroid disorders, intestinal disorders (ie. Colitis) and a history of gynecological disorders (ie. endometriosis, pcos, endometritis, fibroids, amenorrhea).  When one considers all this, its amazing anyone can even get pregnant right?  Well it happens all the time and don’t think that it can’t happen for you despite any challenges you may be facing.

In some cases, you need to see your doctor to address the underlying issue of recurrent miscarriage, but in other cases Chinese Medicine can help greatly.  The main goal in most cases of miscarriage is to strengthen the body and balance the hormones using Acupuncture & Herbs.  If the body is stronger and the hormones balanced, then the chances of miscarriage decrease as the body will be able to maintain the pregnancy.  I like to give the analogy of picking up something heavy like a rock.  Now if you don’t have enough energy then one of two things will happen.  One, you will not be able to even pick up the rock (you wont even be able to get pregnant) or two, you wont be able to pick it up for long therefore dropping it (miscarriage).   Hormone balance (esp. progesterone) is vital to maintaining a pregnancy.  In Chinese Medicine, the main reason for miscarriage is due to Kidney weakness as well as qi and blood weakness.  There are also cases where too much heat can disturb the fetus, but that is not as common.

Preventative measures include moderate sexual intercourse, a good diet, a calm mind, avoiding excessive physical/emotional stress and avoiding any situations that could lead to falling.