Complications - miscarriage
Screening Tests Associated with Recurrent Miscarriage
With some miscarriages there may be indications of a specific condition that may have been the cause. Others will not provide enough information to determine a specific reason.
Here are the common screening tests to rule out causes of recurrent miscarriage:
- Blood tests
- such as serum progesterone and other hormones, antibody testing, VDRL (Venereal Diseases Reach Laboratory), thyroid testing
- Karyotype
- for you and your partner, to rule out chromosomal abnormalities.
- Ultrasound
- used to identify fibroid tumors and ovarian cysts, as well as abnormalities of the shape of the uterus. In some cases, endometriosis (abnormal growth of the endometrium) can also be detected.
- Endometrial Biopsy
– a sampling of the endometrial lining, which is the inner layer of the uterus lining, may be done during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle.
- Hysterosalpingogram or hysteroscopy
- to evaluate your uterus and fallopian tubes.
Karyotyping
This blood test looks at both parents’ genetic information to determine if there are any chromosomal abnormalities. This testing will be done with a geneticist (a specialist in chromosomes and abnormal chromosomal presentations). A genetic counselor will assist you in understanding what the testing involves, what the results mean, and recommendations on going forward with another pregnancy.
Hysteroscopy
This procedure is done to view the inside lining of the uterus. It involves dilation of the cervix and use of a thin telescope mounted with a fiber optic light. The hysteroscope is inserted through the cervix into the uterus allowing the clinician to look within the uterine structure for any defects or growths. It may be done in the Ob/Gyn office, or a surgical center if additional procedures are planned. Photographs may be taken for reference and to review results with you. Hysteroscopy is usually performed in the early half of the menstrual cycle as the endometrium (the inner layer of the uterus which thickens with during the menstrual cycle in order to prepare for pregnancy and implantation of an embryo) has not built up enough to block the clinician’s view.
Hysterosalpingogram
This is a radiological (X-ray) procedure. Dye is injected into the cervix to help visualize the uterus and fallopian tubes and identify any abnormalities. It is done in a radiology center with a radiologist and your Ob/Gyn. It is usually performed before you ovulate to be sure you are not pregnant during the procedure.
