I’ve had three miscarriages before and I’m scared of trying again—is there anything I can do
It is understandable given your experiences that trying to get pregnant again is a scary proposition. Following a third miscarriage, it is usual for your doctor to offer you a number of investigative tests to see if a reason for the miscarriages can be found. In some cases, a cause is identified and treatment can be offered to help improve the outcome for subsequent pregnancies. You are likely to be given a number of blood tests. These are to look for antibodies (proteins in the blood that fight any substance they recognize as foreign to your body), chromosomal abnormalities, and infection. You may also have a vaginal examination and swab and an ultrasound scan to check your womb and tubes. If a chromosomal abnormality is found, genetic counseling should be offered to discuss the implications for future pregnancies. The levels of the hormones progesterone and prolactin may also be checked since these can play a role in miscarriage. Sometimes, the cervix is found to be weakened and likely to open early. If this is the case, you may be offered a cervical stitch that acts like a drawstring on the cervix and hopefully prevents future miscarriage or premature delivery.If you haven’t already been offered these tests, talk to your doctor about them before trying to get pregnant again so that you can begin any recommended treatment as soon as possible