Tips To Reduce The Risk Of Miscarriages In IVF

All women are not blessed enough to get pregnant naturally without complications; still, a considerable number of them need medical assistance such as IVF to experience nurturing a new life within themselves.  

More than 10 - 15 per cent of pregnancies end spontaneously, within 20 weeks. Miscarriages in IVF are as common as in natural pregnancies. With the increasing age and complexities, the percentage of successful pregnancies decreases. It is depressing indeed. 

Below are a few tips to help you lower the risk of miscarriage after an IVF: 

Get TSH Checked 

Studies testify a relation between abnormal levels of TSH in the blood not just limiting to miscarriage but also other problems related to conception. In addition, the medication started at least a month before egg retrieval aids in correcting abnormal thyroid levels. Therefore, it is highly recommended to get your TSH level checked before the treatment starts. 

Get Hysteroscopy Done 

Many doctors tend to avoid Hysteroscopy unless miscarriages are frequent. Various uterine problems such as growths, blockages and damage to the uterus may affect your chances of conception, resulting in miscarriages. It is much more efficient than ultrasound in spotting uterine issues, which can be treated or controlled by doctors. 

Opt For The Right Progesterone 

Progesterone available in the form of pills, pessaries, gel or injections is required in an accurate amount for you to maintain your pregnancy. To adjust to the post-transfer bleeding, vaginal Utrogestan is a super-effective and convenient format to opt for.  

Though a small study, it testified that Crinone reduces early miscarriages better than intramuscular injections.  

Blood Care 

A huge miscarriage threat is blood disorders such as clotting, and thick blood may affect proper blood circulation to the fetus and increase the chances of a miscarriage. In addition, Hughes syndrome, auto-immune disorders and thyroid problems can be identified and treated before the IVF treatment kicks in. 

Check On Natural Born Killer Cells 

Natural Born Killer(NK) cells are in the blood to fight infection. Some believe that increased NK numbers in the uterine lining can attack the baby, considering it a foreign introducer. Therefore, prednisone and Intralipid infusions are suggested to suppress uterine NK cells. 

Cervix Care 

Sometimes these treatments might negatively affect the cervix, thus making it more prone to open up during early pregnancy, resulting in miscarriage. A cervical stitch might help diminish the possibility of an unnatural birth cycle. Past cervical problems should be brought under the doctor's notice before the treatment begins. 

IVF is an extraordinary way to get pregnant for moms who, in any case, can't conceive. A miscarriage post an IVF can be traumatising but the hope of the next one to be successful keeps the ball rolling. And this eventually provides strength mentally and physically to take the game forward towards success. 

Dr Nishi Singh

Guest Author HOD, Department of Infertility & IVF, Prime IVF Center