Risk factors for a miscarriage

Miscarriage can be caused by various factors, which are categorized into medical, genetic, and sociobiological factors. Some of these factors can be avoided, such as infections (for example, toxoplasmosis or rubella) through vaccination and hygiene measures, and unhealthy habits like smoking and alcohol abuse through lifestyle changes. Other factors, such as genetic mutations or congenital anomalies of the uterus, cannot be completely eliminated, but their impact can be mitigated through timely diagnosis, medication, or surgical intervention to minimize risks to the pregnancy.

Medical Risks of Miscarriage

Uterine Anomalies

Congenital or acquired anomalies of the uterus can interfere with the success of the pregnancy. For example:

• Uterine fibroid;
• Scarring after surgery;
• Adhesions in the uterine cavity.

Hormonal Disorders

Disruptions in a woman's hormonal balance also increase the risk of miscarriage. These may include:

• Polycystic ovary syndrome;
• Thyroid dysfunction;
• Progesterone deficiency and other reproductive hormones.

Chronic Diseases

Some chronic diseases can lead to miscarriages:

• Heart defects;
• Diabetes mellitus;
• Autoimmune disorders (for example, systemic lupus erythematosus).

Infections

Infectious diseases are also a risk factor:

• Syphilis;
• HIV;
• Listeriosis;
• Herpes;
• Measles;
• Toxoplasmosis;
• Mumps;
• Rubella.

Genetic Risk Factors for Miscarriage

Miscarriages may be due to:

• Chromosomal anomalies in the parents;
• Defects in a single gene;
• Anomalies of the X chromosome.

Genetic Thrombophilia

Genetic thrombophilia can lead to pregnancy failures and fetal delays. Important genetic markers include:

• MTHFR gene polymorphism;
• Leiden mutations (factor V);
• Alterations in the factor VII gene.

Couples who have experienced two or more miscarriages are advised to consult a geneticist for a thorough diagnosis.

Sociobiological Factors of Miscarriage

Sociobiological factors can also significantly affect pregnancy:

• Maternal age: increased risk in women over 35;
• Low body weight: lack of weight can disrupt hormonal balance;
• Folic acid deficiency: an important factor in preventing congenital anomalies;
• Unhealthy lifestyle: alcohol abuse, smoking;
• Exposure to toxic substances: harmful working conditions;
• Taking medication without a doctor's advice.

A high level of stress can also disrupt the hormonal context and affect embryo implantation and placental development.

Risks of Pregnancy Failure in Natural Conception and IVF

In the case of natural conception.

The risks of pregnancy failure may be related to:

• the mother's age
• chronic diseases
• Hormonal disorders;
• Infections;
• environmental factors and stress.

In the case of IVF

For women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF), the risks may be higher due to:

• hormonal stimulation of ovulation;
• changes in the endometrium
• immunological factors
• the woman's age
• the quality of the embryo
• Possible complications after embryo transfer.

The likelihood of multiple pregnancies also increases the risk of complications such as premature birth.

Support from Natuvitro Clinic

The Natuvitro clinic consists of reproductive specialists and experienced obstetrician-gynecologists who can help identify and minimize the risks of pregnancy failure. For diagnostics, we use

• high-resolution ultrasound;
• Hormonal and immunological panels;
• Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD);
• Blood coagulation analyses;
• Advanced genetic testing.

The Natuvitro clinic is equipped with modern facilities and has its own genetics laboratory, allowing for accurate diagnosis and the development of individualized treatment plans for each patient.