Facing Repeated Miscarriages? Doctors Explain the Causes and the Safest Time to Plan Your Next Pregnancy

Experiencing a miscarriage is emotionally devastating for any couple. When the loss happens repeatedly, the pain deepens, often leaving parents overwhelmed with grief, fear, and unanswered questions. The moment couples realize that their unborn child is gone—once again—it becomes extremely difficult to cope.

Over time, while families attempt to heal, troubling questions emerge: Why does miscarriage keep happening? When is it safe to try again? Will the next pregnancy survive?

To address these fears, Dr. Sadhana Singhal Vishnoi, Senior Consultant in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Punjabi Bagh, New Delhi, explains the medical reasons behind recurrent miscarriages and offers guidance on safely planning the next pregnancy.

Chromosomal Abnormalities: The Most Common Cause

According to Dr. Vishnoi, one of the most frequent reasons for repeated miscarriages is chromosomal abnormalities in the embryo.

“When the embryo does not develop normally due to chromosomal errors, the body naturally rejects the pregnancy,” she explains. This is often beyond the control of the mother and does not indicate any permanent fertility issue.

Hormonal Imbalance Plays a Critical Role

Hormonal disorders are another major contributor. Conditions such as:

• Thyroid imbalance
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
• Low progesterone levels

can interfere with the body’s ability to sustain pregnancy. Progesterone, in particular, is essential for maintaining the uterine lining and supporting early fetal development.

Uterine and Cervical Conditions Can Trigger Pregnancy Loss

Structural abnormalities of the uterus can also prevent a pregnancy from progressing. These include:

• Abnormal uterine shape
• Fibroids or polyps
• Cervical weakness (incompetent cervix)

In some cases, the immune system mistakenly identifies the embryo as a foreign body and attacks it. Conditions like APLA syndrome, which causes abnormal blood clotting, can also restrict blood flow to the fetus, resulting in miscarriage.

Infections and Lifestyle Factors Matter

Dr. Vishnoi adds that certain hidden infections—such as toxoplasmosis, rubella, or untreated urinary and uterine infections—can increase miscarriage risk.

Lifestyle choices also significantly impact pregnancy outcomes. Factors like:

• Smoking or alcohol consumption
• Excessive caffeine intake
• Obesity
• Chronic stress
• Lack of proper sleep

can all negatively affect fertility and fetal development.

When Is It Safe to Plan Pregnancy After a Miscarriage?

One of the most common concerns couples have is how soon they can try again.

“Every woman is different,” says Dr. Vishnoi. “However, doctors generally recommend waiting for two to three normal menstrual cycles before planning another pregnancy.”

This waiting period allows the body to heal completely and ensures the uterus is physically ready to support a healthy pregnancy.

Mental Readiness Is Just as Important

Miscarriage affects not only the body but also emotional well-being. Dr. Vishnoi emphasizes that couples should not rush into another pregnancy until they feel mentally prepared.

“Emotional healing is crucial. If needed, couples should seek counselling without hesitation,” she advises.

A Message of Hope

While recurrent miscarriages are deeply distressing, medical advances today allow doctors to identify causes and guide couples toward safer, successful pregnancies. With proper diagnosis, treatment, and emotional support, most women go on to have healthy babies.