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Recurrent Pregnancy Loss Program

 
Miscarriage
 

The Recurrent Pregnancy Loss Program at the Center for Human Reproduction provides evaluation and support for those who have suffered through multiple pregnancy losses.  The goal of our Program is to find answers on why the miscarriages occurred and determine treatment options to help improve the likelihood for a successful pregnancy. 

As part of the North Shore-LIJ Health System, the Center for Human Reproduction has access to the top physicians in obstetrical care.  We work closely with the institute’s medical community to provide patients with comprehensive evaluation and treatment.  Additionally, our Center is held to the highest quality standards and is at the forefront of innovation and technology.  We are the longest-standing fertility center on Long Island, with a successful history that dates back to 1976.

Drs. Rosenfeld, Chu and our counselor discuss support, evaluations and treatment behind our Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL) Program in the Summer issue of Vitality (Select Vitality Newsletter Link).

The Recurrent Pregnancy Loss Program is recommended to couples who have suffered from recurrent pregnancy loss (two or more) in the first or second trimester. If you or someone you know fits this description and is interested in more information or booking an appointment please call us at (516) 562-2229 or contact us online.


What to Expect on Your Visit

Prior to your visit, our office will provide you and your partner with forms to fill out on your medical history.  These forms are also available here.  It is also helpful to provide your physician with your medical records for information on previous pregnancies and test results. 
  • At your visit, your physician will review your medical history with you and conduct a thorough examination. This may include a detailed laboratory evaluation, ultrasound examinations, specialized genetic testing and any other tests the physician feels are necessary.

  • Following a thorough analysis of your test results, your physician—along with you and your partner—will devise a treatment plan best suited to your needs.  

  • At our Center we take a holistic approach to treatment.  We work to provide our patients with medical and emotional guidance.  In addition to our understanding nurses and physicians, we have a Counselor available to meet with couples and help them through the emotional process.  Since it is normal for women and their partners to experience grief as they mourn the loss of their unborn child, we can offer support and guidance at this difficult time.

Diagnosis

To help determine the cause of your miscarriages, your doctor may run the following tests:

  • Anatomical Evaluation: Your physician will conduct a thorough examination to determine if there are any acquired or congenital defects in the uterus.  The following are various evaluation methods:

    • Hysterosalpingography (HSG)
    • Hysteroscopy
    • Ultrasound
    • Sonohysterogram

  • Hormonal Tests: Through blood testing our doctors can evaluate your hormone levels to determine if a hormonal disorder is the cause of your pregnancy losses.

  • Genetic Tests: Your doctor may run genetic testing on you and your partner.  More than half of miscarriages that occur within the first 13 weeks of pregnancy are caused by problems with the chromosomes of the fetus.  There can be problems with the number or structure of the chromosomes or with the genes they carry.  Extra or missing chromosomes or genes will prohibit the fetus from developing properly. 

  • Autoimmune tests:  Your doctor may request blood tests to screen for an autoimmune syndrome which affects blood clotting and may increase your risk of miscarriage.


Treatments

  • Outpatient Surgery: Surgery may be used to treat uterine abnormalities that are uncovered during your anatomical evaluation.

  • Hormonal treatments, as deemed appropriate by your physician.

  • Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD): In cases of chromosomal abnormalities, our physicians may be able to evaluate the chromosomes of your embryos and will select only the healthiest embryos to be transferred into the future mother to improve the likelihood of a healthy pregnancy and baby.

  • Antibody Issues: If antibody issues, such as antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), were detected, your doctor may treat you with medication.

  • Controlling Preexisting Conditions:  Certain health conditions have been linked to a greater risk of repeated miscarriage.  If your have a preexisting health condition, our Center will work closely with outside physicians to ensure your condition is controlled before attempting a pregnancy.

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