Many people have experience of pregnancy loss but not so many have correct knowledge of this topic. This interview from Dr. Zhang is a pretty good resource for learning more. I paste some QAs below, and for those who are interested in the full article, read it at IVF Miscarriage & PCOS Questions Explained by Dr. Zhang
What is the definition of miscarriage? What are the common reasons of miscarriages? Does a woman's fertility get affected after miscarriages? If so, how?
Miscarriage is defined as the loss of an embryo or fetus before the 20th week of pregnancy. Most miscarriages occur during the first 14 weeks of pregnancy. The medical term for miscarriage is spontaneous abortion or SAB. Miscarriages happen for a number of reasons, and sometimes we cant identify why. However, usually this doesn't impact a womans fertility and we always like to encourage women to try again. There is a huge emotional impact though, and we always suggest dealing with the loss seriously before moving forward to a second attempt. Also, if you are conceiving naturally, but having repeated miscarriages, definitely seek a specialist opinion.
We know many couples have experienced difficulties when trying to conceive. How long do you think a couple should try before they go see a doctor?
By definition, infertility can be diagnosed after 6 months of trying for over 35 years old (typically easier to conceive) and 1 year for under 35 (keep trying). But infertility is only one reason you might come to see a specialist. Fear of sex or complicated situations may bring you in. STIs and other diseases that you dont want to pass on to your children may bring you in for assistance. Same sex couples come in regularly, and physically there is nothing wrong with them. But if you are two women or two men, conceiving on your own will be a challenge. We help because everyone deserves to have a chance at raising a family. So I cannot say exactly, try for a time and then come in. Too many special cases. But most people know when they are trying that maybe they need help. It should not be embarrassing. There is nothing wrong with assisted reproduction.
What is the definition of miscarriage? What are the common reasons of miscarriages? Does a woman's fertility get affected after miscarriages? If so, how?
Miscarriage is defined as the loss of an embryo or fetus before the 20th week of pregnancy. Most miscarriages occur during the first 14 weeks of pregnancy. The medical term for miscarriage is spontaneous abortion or SAB. Miscarriages happen for a number of reasons, and sometimes we cant identify why. However, usually this doesn't impact a womans fertility and we always like to encourage women to try again. There is a huge emotional impact though, and we always suggest dealing with the loss seriously before moving forward to a second attempt. Also, if you are conceiving naturally, but having repeated miscarriages, definitely seek a specialist opinion.
We know many couples have experienced difficulties when trying to conceive. How long do you think a couple should try before they go see a doctor?
By definition, infertility can be diagnosed after 6 months of trying for over 35 years old (typically easier to conceive) and 1 year for under 35 (keep trying). But infertility is only one reason you might come to see a specialist. Fear of sex or complicated situations may bring you in. STIs and other diseases that you dont want to pass on to your children may bring you in for assistance. Same sex couples come in regularly, and physically there is nothing wrong with them. But if you are two women or two men, conceiving on your own will be a challenge. We help because everyone deserves to have a chance at raising a family. So I cannot say exactly, try for a time and then come in. Too many special cases. But most people know when they are trying that maybe they need help. It should not be embarrassing. There is nothing wrong with assisted reproduction.
