• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to footer
  • Fertility Topics
  • Fertility Therapies
  • Hormone Health
  • Nutrition
  • Success Stories
  • PROGRAMS
  • ARTICLES
Natural Fertility Info.com
  • Shop Products
  • PROGRAMS
  • ARTICLES
Natural Fertility Info.com

Natural Fertility Info.com

Natural Fertility tips, information, herbs, supplements and more

  • Shop Products

Fertility Therapies

Multiple Miscarriages, Fertility & Genetic Testing

Sarah Abernathy - Certified Herbalist
July 25, 2021
Reviewed by Christine Traxler, MD

First, we’re sorry for your loss! We suspect that because you are referring to this guide, that recurrent miscarriage is a concern. You, more than anyone, know how hard miscarriage is. Addressing the emotional and physical pain, on top of trying to figure out what’s wrong can be overwhelming for anyone – let alone wondering about genetics, how they play a role, and if there is anything that can be done to change them.

Genetic issues (especially chromosomal issues) are believed to cause up to 60% of miscarriages. The majority of these problems occur when the sperm meets the egg. Underlying genetic factors in the parents don’t usually cause them.

About 4% of couples with a history of recurrent miscarriage have chromosomal abnormalities that may recur in a future pregnancy. The good news is statistics show that many of these couples go on to have healthy pregnancies.

Still, anyone who’s experienced recurrent miscarriage understandably needs answers and support. Along with immunological infertility testing, genetic testing offers another avenue to explore what’s happening within your body and take back some control over your fertility.

Genetic Tests Available for Couples Who Have Experienced Multiple Miscarriages

1. Genetic Karyotype – This testing screens for chromosomal abnormalities that increase miscarriage risk and the birth of a baby with a genetic problem.

Who should consider it? Couples with a history of multiple miscarriages (3 or more) who are planning for natural conception or IVF are good candidates for genetic karyotype testing. If you have had fewer than three miscarriages, but feel you are at high risk due to family history or other factors, it may also be a good idea to push for testing.

2. PGS (preimplantation genetic screening): If you’re planning for IVF and have a history of miscarriage, PGS can screen for healthy embryos, which are more likely to implant and develop normally.

Who should consider it? If you have risk factors such as family history of genetic disease like cystic fibrosis, clotting disorders, age-related fertility health issues (declining egg or sperm health), or unexplained infertility, PGS can be a good choice to help you conceive and have a healthy pregnancy.

3. Fetal Tissue Testing: For women experiencing a miscarriage and planning for a D&C, genetic karyotyping on the tissue that’s collected can help rule out genetic issues in the embryo.

Who should consider it? This can be a good choice if you have no other known miscarriage risk factors like hormone imbalance, hypothyroidism, immunological issues or cervical weakness, and are looking for answers.

Common Genetic Problems Found Through Testing

1. Aneuploidy: Aneuploidy is a carrier of an abnormal number of chromosomes. It’s the top chromosomal abnormality in men and women. It includes chromosomal translocations, inversions, and deletions. Aneuploidy is a contributor to miscarriages, low embryo implantation rate, and the birth of babies with genetic issues.

Aneuploidies can be inherited or develop through the aging process. Whether or not you will be able to carry a pregnancy to term or have a healthy baby really depends on the type of aneuploidy you have, and what can be done about it. Working with a genetic counselor and fertility specialist offers the most support.

2. Balanced Translocation: In 4.5% of couples with multiple miscarriages, one or both parents have an inherited balanced translocation gene. In balanced translocation, part of a chromosome has broken off and reattached to a different area. While many people with them have no idea they are carriers, balanced translocations can cause serious health issues.

Balanced translocation can cause an embryo to have missing or extra genetic material, which can ultimately lead to miscarriage. Yet, even if you test positive for balanced translocation, there is a good chance you may ultimately have a healthy pregnancy. If you have balanced translocation and are planning for IVF, PGS (preimplantation genetic screening) can screen for healthy embryos that are more likely to implant.

3. MTHFR (Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase gene mutation): 30-50% of people have MTHFR gene defect. For most, it’s harmless. For others, MTHFR increases risk for recurrent miscarriages, health issues, high homocysteine levels, and pregnancy complications. The MTHFR gene is necessary for methylation, which converts folate and folic acid into a form the body can use.

The MTHFR C667T gene variant is especially problematic and can decrease your body’s ability to produce methylfolate by 40-60%. If you have MTHFR C667T:

  • work with fertility specialist that is experienced with it
  • focus on a diet that is rich in naturally occurring folate, which is safe for people with MTHFR. Good food sources of folate include: uncooked dark leafy green vegetables, artichokes, lentils, beans, liver, and avocado

It’s also important to only use methylated (active) forms of B complex vitamins, which are:

  • vitamin B6, commonly listed as Pyridoxal 5-Phosphate
  • vitamin B12, commonly listed as methylcobalamin

Avoid any supplements or foods fortified with folic acid. Many women with MTHFR are able to go on to have healthy pregnancies just by making a few changes and working with an educated practitioner.

4. Genetic Clotting Disorder/ Thrombophilia/ Factor V Leiden: About 1 in 5 people in the US is a carrier of some form of thrombophilia. Thrombophilia is a general term used to describe blood-clotting conditions that cause the body to form blood clots, often in excess. Since pregnant women are already more likely to develop blood clots, having a blood-clotting disorder can be especially challenging during a pregnancy. Two common blood-clotting disorders we are asked about related to fertility are:

  • Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) – a common type of acquired, autoimmune (not genetic) thrombophilia, which leads to pregnancy complications.
  • Factor V Leiden – a genetic blood-clotting disorder that increases the risk for recurrent miscarriage and pregnancy complications.

Many women with thrombophilias have healthy pregnancies, but it’s important to know what your status is. Unmanaged thrombophilia can increase your risk of recurrent miscarriage, stillbirth, placental abruption, IUGR (intrauterine growth restriction), and preeclampsia.

If you have a genetic or acquired clotting disorder, ask your fertility specialist about using anti-clotting medication (like low-dose aspirin and heparin) during pregnancy (in some cases, this may reduce miscarriage risk up to 54%), or talk to your doctor about using Systemic Enzyme Therapy.

Genetic Issues: What You Can Do About Them

Most couples in this situation continue trying to conceive a healthy pregnancy or they explore a different path to parenthood. In some cases, there may be nothing that can address a genetic fertility issue. Having said that, medical and natural therapy options do exist for certain genetic disorders.

Using natural programs to Increase Egg Health in 90 Days and Increase Low Sperm Count and Improve Male Fertility can impact age and lifestyle related chromosomal issues and unexplained infertility for many couples.

If you’re going through this, work with fertility specialists for the best results. If you need genetic testing, find a clinic who specializes in recurrent pregnancy loss. They can refer you to a genetic counselor who can lead you in the right direction.

Finding Your Fertile Path

Miscarriage is rarely the result of something you or your partner did! It’s important to remember that we may never know the causes of all miscarriages. Moreover, there are many non-genetic miscarriage causes that can be addressed naturally or through medical means.

If you’ve experienced multiple miscarriages and suspect you have a genetic issue, take comfort in the fact that many couples with genetic challenges go on to have healthy pregnancies. Be easy on yourself on this road! Take advantage of mind-body therapies to reduce fertility stress. Consider support groups and grief counseling to work on the emotions that may come up. Reach out for support! Give your body extra love through healthy recommendations from us! Please also reach out to us. We’re here to provide education, empowerment, and support as you prepare for your next steps on this journey.

References

  • Genetic Causes of Miscarriage. (2015). Retrieved from: http://www.ivfne.com/fertility-treatment/genetic-testing-pgd/genetic-causes-recurrent-miscarriage/#t0M0MqrFHHvDX50p.99
  • Patural, A. (2007). Lower Your Miscarriage Risk With New Tests and Treatments. Retrieved from: http://www.cnn.com/2007/HEALTH/conditions/08/17/healthmag.baby.maybe/index.html?_s=PM:HEALTH
  • Danielsson, K. (2016). Parental Karyotype Tests For Recurrent Miscarriage. Retrieved from: https://www.verywell.com/parental-karyotype-tests-2371787
  • Repeated Miscarriages: FAQS. (2016). The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Retrieved from: http://www.acog.org/~/media/For%20Patients/faq100.pdf
  • Thrombophilias. (2016). Retrieved from: http://www.marchofdimes.org/complications/thrombophillias.aspx
  • Clotting Disorders and Recurrent Miscarriage. (2016). Retrieved from: http://www.newyorkfertilityservices.com/causes-of-infertility/recurrent-miscarriage/clotting-disorders-recurrent-miscarriage/
  • Jeve, Y., & Davies, W. (2014). Evidence-based management of recurrent miscarriages. Journal of Human Reproductive Sciences, 7(3), 159. doi:10.4103/0974-1208.142475 Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4229790/
  • Rodriguez, H. (n.d.). 5 Steps To Decreasing the Chance of Recurrent Miscarriages. Retrieved from: http://natural-fertility-info.com/preventing-miscarriage
  • Barton-Schuster, D. (n.d.). Defective MTHFR Gene Linked To Fertility and Pregnancy Struggles. Retrieved from: http://natural-fertility-info.com/mthfr-gene-folic-acid.html

« Previous Post
Fertility Herb Guide: Pregnancy Preparation
Next Post »
Video: Top Period Questions + Fertility Q&A

About the Author

Sarah Abernathy - Certified Herbalist

Sarah Abernathy - Certified Herbalist

Sarah has worked in the field of natural foods and herbalism for over 20 years. She's the Co-Author of "Healthy Healing" with over 1 million copies sold, a Certified Herbalist, and a health and wellness consultant. Sarah Graduated from the Professional Herbal Studies program at East West School of Herbology, and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English from St. Mary's College. Working with women on their journey to wellness is her passion and she loves to share what she has been blessed to learn from naturopaths and other herbalists over the years.

5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally

  • Learn the 5 different areas to focus on for optimal fertility health
  • Learn how to support hormonal health with herbs and essential oils
  • Tips on transitioning to a whole food fertility diet.
  • Self-care therapies to support your reproductive health

@NaturalFertilityInfo

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 19

Open
What you are doing today is impacting the health of your eggs 90 days from now. Let's pamper those eggs! 
​
​If you are wondering where to get started, download my egg health guide at www.EggHealthTips.com

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 17

Open
Can added sugars in our diets affect hormonal health and fertility? Here are the details and the effects sugary foods can have on hormonal and reproductive health... 
​
​What's your biggest hurdle when it comes to sugar?

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 12

Open
Diana’s story is one of true heartbreak after years of struggle, but with a glorious golden light at the end of the tunnel. Here is her truly inspiring fertility journey…
​
​​​​​
​**While testimonials are real life experiences of those who have used our products, results do vary. We do not claim that they are typical results that consumers will generally achieve. The testimonials are not necessarily representative of all of those who will use our products and/or services.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 6

Open
Q: I am on birth control, can I start supporting my hormonal health with herbs and supplements or do I need to be off of birth control to start?
​
​Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 4

Open
Have you been waiting to begin making healthy lifestyle changes to support your fertility health? Do you feel overwhelmed about where to begin?
​
​What has been holding you back?

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 2

Open
Girls, we all have one. Here are some ways to encourage health and balance, naturally...
​
​For the full guide, click the link in our Bio.
​

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 27

Open
Jennifer experienced multiple miscarriages before finding our website. She became inspired by our success stories and was determined to become one too! Read more about her journey... 
​
​
​​​​**While testimonials are real life experiences of those who have used our products, results do vary. We do not claim that they are typical results that consumers will generally achieve. The testimonials are not necessarily representative of all of those who will use our products and/or services.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 25

Open
Q: When should someone consider having testing done?
​
​Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 21

Open
To make an impact on your health, you will need to first learn the actions and steps to take... then you will need to be consistent with those actions. It is the consistency that brings you the results. You are going to be human and not be perfect 100% of the time. Just accept that and get back to it. Consistency, day in and out, is more important than being perfect. You can't be 100% perfect for long, but you can be consistent every day.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 19

Open
If you’ve undergone many consecutive fertility treatments without a successful pregnancy, it could be time for a break. Taking a break gives your body a chance to cleanse, reset and recover. Relief from the side effects and stress could be exactly what you need for a fresh start for your fertility journey.

Use the time to work on yourself- mind and body. A break might even give you the opportunity to find a new sense of peace or a new version of your fertility program.
​
Learn more about natural therapies you can use to help your body reset after medical fertility treatments...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 13

Open
After 6 unsuccessful IUIs and one IVF of the same result, Angela takes a break and discovers the Natural Fertility Company. Using our resources to help her implement some changes, she has a much different result on her next IVF at 43. Click through the slides to read her story...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 11

Open
Q: My partner smokes, will this affect his fertility?
​
​Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 6

Open
I have KMF imprinted on many of my personal belongings as a constant reminder to Keep Moving Forward. This started to be my mantra about 20 years ago when I was in a tough patch and knew the only way was through, and step by step. Keep moving forward. What is the next step, shuffle or even pause that may need to happen? Whatever it is, move towards it, into it, and forward.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 4

Open
With so many chemicals and outside factors contributing to estrogen dominance in the body, it is good to help support hormonal balance and one way to do that is through foods.
​
​Here are some tips, including foods that help to promote the body's natural ability to get rid of excess estrogens. ..
​
​Are you getting any of these foods in your weekly diet?

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 1

Open
Trish conceives her second child with natural therapies at 37. Swipe through to read her story... 
​
​​​**While testimonials are real life experiences of those who have used our products, results do vary. We do not claim that they are typical results that consumers will generally achieve. The testimonials are not necessarily representative of all of those who will use our products and/or services.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 30

Open
Q: I have heavy periods, should I be concerned about using tampons?
​
​Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 28

Open
I knew what my life's calling was at a very young age. At around 16, I had a dream where a dreadlocked rasta man came to me (Burning Spears to be exact) and in that dream was told that I was to be a healer. It was the type of dream that was more real than reality. The next day I woke up feeling different than I had ever felt before. Later on that day, we had new neighbors move into the house above us and a woman came and introduced herself. When I opened the door, she said her name and told me she was opening up a school of healing and that I was to be one of her students. It was one of the most intense series of events in my life. I went on to go to her school and my path started with an amazing community and so much support. What are one of the most life changing experiences you have had? I would love to hear...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 24

Open
Stress can be one of the primary factors behind infertility. Believe it or not, our bodies are equipped to prevent conception from occurring during times of extreme stress. The presence of adrenaline, the hormone that is released by our bodies during stressful times, signals to our body that conditions are not ideal for conception. Adrenaline inhibits us from utilizing the hormone progesterone, which is essential for fertility. It also causes the pituitary gland to release higher levels of prolactin, which also causes infertility to occur.
​
​Swipe left for ways to reduce the effect of stress on your fertility...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 21

Open
At 39, Milissa focuses on natural ways to prevent another miscarriage & goes on to conceive. Swipe through the slides to read more about her journey... 
​
​
​**​​While testimonials are real life experiences of those who have used our products, results do vary. We do not claim that they are typical results that consumers will generally achieve. The testimonials are not necessarily representative of all of those who will use our products and/or services.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 17

Open
​We come into contact with xenohormones on a daily basis. Once you know where and what they are, you can avoid them or not use products that contain them. There has been extensive research on the connection between xenohormones and hormone disruption, which leads us to fertility issues and imbalances. Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...
​
​If you would like support in getting started with your Ditch and Switch, download my free guide on how to get started. The link is in our Bio.
Load More...

Footer

  • Programs
  • Upcoming Classes

  • Consultations
  • Contact Us