Stephenson, M. D. (1996). Frequency of factors associated with habitual abortion in 197 couples. Fertility and sterility. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0015-0282(16)58382-4
Stephenson MD. Frequency of factors associated with habitual abortion in 197 couples. Fertility and sterility. 1996. doi:10.1016/s0015-0282(16)58382-4
Stephenson, M. D. "Frequency of factors associated with habitual abortion in 197 couples." Fertility and sterility, 1996.
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Abstract
Objective
To determine the frequency of factors associated with habitual abortion in 197 couples.
Design
Prospective cohort study.
Setting
The British Columbia Recurrent Pregnancy Loss Program, located in a tertiary care academic center.
Interventions
Diagnostic screening protocol.
Main Outcome Measures
Genetic, endocrine, infectious, anatomical, and autoimmune factors associated with habitual abortion.
Results
A structural genetic factor was identified in 3.5% of the couples. An endocrine factor, including luteal phase deficiency and hypothyroidism, was identified in 20% and an infectious factor was identified in 0.5% of the couples. An anatomical factor, including various müllerian tract anomalies and severe intrauterine adhesions, was found in 16% and an autoimmune factor, including the antiphospholipid antibody syndrome and the undifferentiated connective tissue syndrome, was identified in 20% of the couples. Eighty-four couples who completed the diagnostic screening protocol were classified as having unexplained habitual abortion. Of these 84 couples, 65% were subclassified as primary, 27% were subclassified as secondary, and 7% had unclassified unexplained habitual abortion.
Conclusions
This large-scale study identified genetic, endocrine, infectious, anatomical, or autoimmune factors in approximately 60% of couples with habitual abortion.