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What Causes Recurrent Pregnancy Loss?

Recurrent pregnancy loss is a shattering blow to any parent. It is characterized by two or more consecutive failed pregnancies. Around 10 to 15% of pregnancies end in miscarriage. A thorough physical examination is recommended after three failed pregnancies.

Women over 35 and those who have been trying to conceive for more than a year should have a thorough checkup done by a fertility expert after two miscarriages.

Here are some common causes of recurrent pregnancy loss from Anchor Acupuncture, El Cerrito acupuncture experts.

Sperm and Egg Quality Issues

Sperm should have healthy DNA. As men age, their sperm DNA becomes more fragile and can get easily damaged. Sometimes, results for sperm standard are normal, but an in-depth analysis may reveal abnormalities. A checkup is usually done by a fertility expert or a reproductive urologist.

Poor egg quality is another common cause of miscarriages. Age-related deterioration can affect egg quality and levels of different reproductive hormones. A blood test for different hormones such as FSH, prolactin, LH, estradiol, and AMH can reveal chromosomal issues.

Structural Issues With the Uterus

Uterine abnormalities can impact the health of the uterine lining. An unhealthy uterine lining affects the development of the placenta and the baby does not get proper nutrition. Some structural issues with the uterus that can result in consecutive miscarriages are polyps, septum and uterine fibroids.

Low Thyroid Levels

Thyroid hormones are required to support a healthy pregnancy. Low thyroid levels during pregnancy have been linked to a high risk of stillbirth, premature birth and miscarriage. Oftentimes, a standard preconception screening does not reveal thyroid issues. Doctors use thyroid panels to gain insights into thyroid problems.

Thin Uterine Lining

The uterine lining provides nourishment for an embryo. When the uterine lining is too thin (less than 7mm), the body cannot sustain an embryo. Even if implantation occurs, the placenta will be unable to support proper embryo growth and development.

Some common reasons for a thin uterine lining are poor nutrition leading to decreased blood flow, damaged endometrial lining, and low estrogen level.

How Can Acupuncture Help?

Acupuncture can be very useful in preventing miscarriages. Pregnancy acupuncture in El Cerrito supports a healthy pregnancy by improving blood circulation to the uterus, which increases the thickness and quality of the endometrial lining.

The ancient Chinese practice addresses the underlying cause of hormonal imbalance by regulating hormones. It can help treat PCOS, endometriosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other autoimmune diseases that can cause miscarriage.

Stress is one of the most common causes of miscarriages. Acupuncture can help combat stress. It stimulates the pituitary gland to secrete natural feel-good hormones and reduce the levels of cortisol.

Acupuncture can improve egg quality and reduce the number of structural abnormalities in sperm, while increasing the number of normal sperm in ejaculate.

Anchor Acupuncture & Wellness is a trusted acupuncture clinic in El Cerrito. We use time-tested TCM techniques to treat health conditions. Our certified acupuncturists have years of experience developing customized treatment plans for their patients. To make an appointment, call (415) 855-3112.

Amanda Moler is a licensed acupuncturist and certified fertility acupuncturist (FABORM), serving San Francisco, CA.  Her educational background includes receiving a bachelor’s degree in Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution from Antioch College in 2001 and in 2010, her master’s degree from American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine. In 2008, she also attended Pacific College of Oriental Medicine in Chicago, IL for education on acupuncture and oriental medicine. Asa Fellow of the American Board of Oriental Reproductive Medicine, she has gained recognition for treating complex women fertility cases, providing guidance on painful side-effects of drugs, hormones, and maintaining the overall well-being of women. Follow Anchor Acupuncture and Amanda Moler on Facebook , Instagram, LinkedIn.