Dr. Murat ÖNAL

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Miscarriage (Pregnancy Loss) – Causes and Treatment

For women experiencing miscarriage (pregnancy loss) in Cyprus, Dr. Murat Önal provides in-depth evaluations and personalized treatments aimed at preventing recurrent losses.

Remember: Miscarriage is a medical condition that many women may experience, and with proper treatment and emotional support, a healthy pregnancy is often possible.

What Is a Miscarriage?

A miscarriage is the spontaneous loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week. It most commonly occurs during the first trimester (first 12 weeks).

Common Signs of Miscarriage

  • Vaginal bleeding or spotting
  • Abdominal or pelvic cramps
  • Passage of blood clots or tissue

Note: Not all bleeding indicates a miscarriage. A doctor’s evaluation is essential.

Common Causes of Miscarriage in Cyprus

There are many potential causes of miscarriage. The most common ones include:

Genetic Causes

  • The leading cause of miscarriage is chromosomal abnormalities in the embryo.
  • These abnormalities typically result from genetic issues in the egg or sperm, leading to improper embryo development.

More frequent in:

  • Women aged 35 and older
  • Couples with a history of recurrent miscarriages
  • Couples with a family history of genetic disorders

Solution:
Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) can be used to select healthy embryos and reduce the risk of miscarriage.

Uterine Abnormalities

Structural problems in the uterus can prevent embryo implantation or hinder healthy development.

Common uterine conditions include:

  • Septate uterus (uterine septum)
  • Intrauterine adhesions (Asherman’s syndrome)
  • Fibroids and polyps

Symptoms: Painful periods, recurrent miscarriages, or failed implantation
Diagnosis: Via ultrasound, HSG (hysterosalpingography), or hysteroscopy

Solution:
 Hysteroscopic surgery can correct these issues and improve pregnancy outcomes.

Hormonal Imbalances

Disorders involving thyroid hormones or low progesterone can lead to miscarriage.

Common hormonal causes:

  • Hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism
  • Luteal phase defect (progesterone deficiency)
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Symptoms: Irregular periods, abnormal hormone levels after miscarriage
Diagnosis: Blood tests for TSH, FT4, progesterone, and others

Solution:
Hormonal imbalances are treated with tailored medication protocols.

Immune System Disorders

Immune dysfunctions can cause the body to reject the embryo or increase clotting risks.

Key immune-related causes:

  • Antiphospholipid syndrome
  • Thrombophilia (blood clotting disorders)
  • Elevated natural killer (NK) cell activity

Symptoms: Recurrent miscarriage, clot-heavy periods, family history of clotting issues
Diagnosis: Through immune and hematologic testing

Solution:
Treatments may include aspirin, Clexane (blood thinners), or immune-modulating medications.

Recurrent Miscarriage

Recurrent miscarriage is defined as two or more consecutive pregnancy losses.

It affects approximately 1–2% of the population and requires thorough investigation.

Common causes of recurrent miscarriage:

  • Genetic abnormalities (embryo chromosomal issues)
  • Uterine anomalies (septum, adhesions)
  • Hormonal disorders (thyroid dysfunction, low progesterone)
  • Immune issues (thrombophilia, antiphospholipid syndrome)
  • Chronic illnesses (e.g., diabetes, autoimmune conditions)

Dr. Murat Önal conducts comprehensive diagnostic testing to identify the underlying cause and prepares a personalized treatment plan for each patient.

What to Do After a Miscarriage

Recovery involves both physical and emotional healing.

Post-miscarriage recommendations:

  • Medical check-up: An ultrasound is necessary to ensure no tissue remains in the uterus
  • Rest: Physical and psychological rest is essential
  • Blood tests: Beta hCG monitoring to confirm hormone levels return to baseline
  • Future pregnancy planning: Typically possible after 4–6 weeks once menstrual cycles normalize. Couples with recurrent losses should undergo testing before trying again

Emotional support: Feelings of sadness, anxiety, or guilt are common. Professional counseling may be beneficial.

Miscarriage Treatment and Follow-Up in Cyprus

Miscarriage treatment is based on the gestational age and whether the miscarriage is complete or incomplete.

Treatment options:

  • Expectant management: Waiting 2–14 days for the body to complete the miscarriage naturally
  • Medical management: Medications to help the uterus expel tissue
  • Surgical treatment (curettage/D&C): Used when necessary to clear the uterus completely

Follow-up care:

  • Beta hCG levels are monitored until they return to zero
  • Ultrasound is used to ensure the uterus is clear
  • Additional tests (hormonal, genetic, immune) are conducted in recurrent cases

Dr. Murat Önal ensures comprehensive post-miscarriage care focused on both physical recovery and planning for a future healthy pregnancy.

Frequently Asked Questions – Miscarriage

What is a miscarriage and why does it occur?

A miscarriage is the loss of pregnancy before the 20th week. The most common cause is chromosomal abnormalities in the embryo. Other causes include uterine issues, hormonal imbalances, and immune problems.

How are recurrent miscarriages treated in Cyprus?

A complete evaluation is done, including genetic, hormonal, uterine, and immune assessments. Treatment may involve medication, surgical correction, or IVF with PGT.

When can I try to conceive after a miscarriage?

After a single miscarriage, you may try again once your cycle regularizes (usually after 4–6 weeks). Those with recurrent miscarriages should wait until testing and treatment are complete.

Do genetic problems increase the risk of miscarriage?

Yes. Embryo chromosomal abnormalities are the leading cause of miscarriage. If one parent carries a balanced translocation or other genetic issues, the risk is higher.

Which tests are recommended after miscarriage?

  • Genetic karyotyping
  • Uterine evaluation via HSG or hysteroscopy
  • Hormone panel (TSH, prolactin, progesterone)
  • Blood clotting and immune testing (thrombophilia panel, antiphospholipid antibodies)

Dr. Murat Önal provides compassionate, personalized, and evidence-based care for women experiencing miscarriage in Cyprus, with the goal of supporting future healthy pregnancies.