Recurrent miscarriage

Definition/Description

Miscarriage is defined as loss of a pregnancy before viability – usually 24 weeks.

Requires confirmation of pregnancy with either urinary pregnancy test or USS; not simply delayed menses

The recurrent miscarriage clinic will review couples with >3 first trimester miscarriages or one second trimester miscarriage

Red Flag Symptoms

None provided

Guidelines on Management

  • A baseline USS (outside pregnancy) to exclude uterine pathology
  • Day 1-5 FSH, LH (PCOS increases risk of miscarriage)
  • Product of conception should be sent to Histology (usually instigated by secondary care) – please offer histology pot if patient has had home miscarriages
  • Pre-conceptual advice – smoking cessation advice and folic acid

Referral Criteria/Information

Information to include in referral letter

  • Details of full obstetric history (include miscarriages/TOPs/ectopics)
  • Whether any previous treatment to cervix (if so please include date of last smear & result)
  • Relevant past medical / surgical history
  • Current regular medication

NB – secondary care will organise chromosomal analysis for the couple and thrombophilia screen for the woman

Additional Resources & Reference

Patient Information

RCOG Recurrent miscarriage patient information leaflet: https://www.rcog.org.uk/en/patients/patient-leaflets/recurrent-andlate-miscarriage/ 
 

References:

  1. The investigation and treatment of couples with recurrent first trimester and second trimester miscarriages. RCOG Greentop guideline No 17. April 2011

Associated Policies

There are no associated policies.

Specialties

Places covered by

  • vale-of-york

Hospital Trusts

  • york-and-scarborough-teaching-hospitals
Author: Responsible GP – Dr Omnia Hefni, SRCCG / Responsible Consultant – Ms Louise Hayes, YTHFT / Responsible Pharmacist – Ms Rachel Ainger, SRCCG Medicines Mngt
Date created: 13/08/2025, 13:14
Last modified: 13/08/2025, 13:14
Date of review: 2024-09-30