Dr. Marjorie Greenfield
Specializing in pregnancy and birth.
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 Ask Dr. Greenfield
Two Consecutive Miscarriages | | | QUESTION | | | Dear Dr. Greenfield,
My wife has just miscarried our third baby, which makes two miscarriages in a row. I have concerns about the internal examination that my wife received with the last two pregnancies. Are there risks associated with these internal examinations that are performed during the first trimester?— Concerned Husband in Omaha, NE | | | ANSWER |
May 23, 2001 | | | Dear Concerned Husband,
When you have experienced a loss it is natural to try to think of what could have been done to prevent it or what might have caused it. It is immensely frustrating to be told that miscarriages are usually inevitable and that you do not have control of something as important as this. You want answers.
In reality, while you may have concerns that activities have led to the loss--pelvic exams, ultrasounds, and even sexual intercourse do not cause the miscarriage of a normal pregnancy.
The most common reason that two miscarriages happen to the same couple is temporary bad luck. Miscarriage is so common that two can happen just by chance. In your case, you have evidence that you can have a child, and most likely the next pregnancy will go well, if you can stand to put your hearts on the line again.
That said, many doctors will evaluate a couple after two consecutive losses to search for factors that would cause a tendency to miscarry. While this does not usually find a reason, it can give the family some reassurance that they are not missing out on any preventative measures they could be taking. Speak with your doctor about whether he or she advises a work-up in your particular situation.
Sending best wishes for success.— by Marjorie Greenfield, M.D. |
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