Comparative study of etiological factors of single early pregnancy loss with that of recurrent pregnancy loss

Abstract

Aim and Objective: Investigating for pregnancy loss is usually recommended only after two or more pregnancy losses. But women with single pregnancy loss seek explanation, in practice. This study is conducted in order to determine the identifiable causes and their proportion in women with single early pregnancy loss and to compare with that of women with recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study is undertaken between January 2021 and January 2022. Group A included 50 women with single early pregnancy loss and Group B included 50 women with RPL. The recommended investigations for etiological factors are done in both groups except karyotyping, and thrombophilia screening is done in those with unknown etiology. Statistical analysis: Etiological factors are expressed as proportions, and comparison between two groups is done by unpaired t-test and Mann–Whitney test. Results: Socio demographic factors and gestational age are similar in both the groups. Significantly more number of women with single early pregnancy loss (60%) had known etiological factors than women with RPL (48%) (P = 0.038). Endocrine causes are commonest in both the groups (single early pregnancy loss 36%, RPL 22%; P = 0.023). Out of the women with unknown causes, approximately 25% of women are positive for thrombophilia in each group. Conclusion: Significant proportion of women with single early pregnancy loss have treatable etiological factors like those of RPL. Hence evaluation should be undertaken to achieve optimum outcomes during the next pregnancy and prevent RPL. Clinical significance: Assessing the women with first pregnancy loss aids the obstetrician to avert pregnancy loss in further pregnancies by apt management according to etiology.