First steps in testing after second MMC

[sweetpea2000]

I've just had a second MMC following another one in the summer.

I know it's not technically treated as 'recurrent' until you have 3. And I understand why, as 2 consecutive MCs are still more likely to be sporadic/ chromosomal than have an underlying cause.

However I'm feeling fragile, and reluctant to just try again if there is an underlying cause that could be treated next time.

I'm happy to pay for it, but just trying to get my head around the right tests, which is pretty overwhelming.

My pregnancies ended at 8 and 6 weeks. From the reading I've done (Lesley Regan's book) it seems like that is most likely due to 'sporadic' chromosomal causes OR a recurrent issue with clotting/ immunological factors. Does that sound right? It's all so confusing and I feel like I need PhD just to be able to plan a safe pregnancy.

From what I've read online, there are 'tier one' tests which are commonly covered by the NHS in recurrent miscarriage clinics. These look at Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) and other clotting problems, as well as anatomical irregularities, and Karotyping.

Is that right? And then if those tests are inconclusive, there are 'tier two tests' which include NK cells and other more controversial immunological factors.

I'm just wondering if it's worth me getting the 'tier one' tests done privately. I know I'm not eligible on the NHS, but am willing to go privately to eliminate any obvious problems before next time. Can anyone make a recommendation of where to get this done?

Thank you!

Hi @PolarBear63 just checking in to see if you managed to find a local consultant and get an appointment? Hope all is well x

@KB86 I did find somewhere but I’ve not done anything about it as of yet. I’m still dithering over it! Thanks for asking though.

Hi ladies, was reading your stories and wondered whether you had any success after your miscarriages? I recently had a missed miscarriage. What helped you achieve your success? It will be great to hear your suggestions.

Hi @K8dferXdder i'm so sorry for your loss 😔

I went for private tests (Nuffield) after a miscarriage in May 2020 and a missed miscarriage in December 2020. My blood tests showed I had an underlying blood clotting condition, so when I fell pregnant with my 3rd I was prescribed blood thinning injections up until I was 36 weeks and progesterone pessaries up until I was 16 weeks.
I can happily report I had my rainbow baby in November 2021 😊 i'll never know if it was the medication that got the pregnancy to full term, but I certainly felt more positive going into the 3rd pregnancy knowing I was doing all I could do rule out any potential causes. So for that reason alone I would recommend going for tests if you're able to. It's worth checking with your GP first, I think some are more sympathetic thsn others and may provide some tests on the NHS. Mine said no hence going private 😔

I also bought the book 'it starts with the egg' and followed some guidance from that book on what supplements to take to help improve egg quality.

I wish you every success on your journey to getting your rainbow baby 🌈

@KB86 what good news thank you for sharing.

I've had 2 mmc and terrified of a third.

I'm going to ask my dr if they will do any blood tests to check me.

Really good to hear your outcome though, there is hope.