Traditional Chinese Medicine

Recurrent Miscarriage

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What defines recurrent miscarriage? 
Recurrent miscarriage is defined as if 3 or more miscarriages happen consecutively. Generally, the miscarriage rate of pregnant women isn't lower than 15-25%, and less than 5% of those will experience 2 consecutive miscarriages, and only 1% of those will experience 3 consecutive miscarriages.

Should I get checked if a miscarriage occurs?
A new study from 2020 states that: it is recommended to undergo examinations by a healthcare provider if there are 2 consecutive miscarriages. 

TCM sorts recurrent miscarriages into 2 categories: 
(1) Fetal: Parental insufficiency when insemination of the sperm and eggs happens. The quality of the sperm and eggs is crucial to fetal development. 
(2) Maternal: Instability in the meridians, leading to an inability to circulate blood to properly nourish the fetus. This includes conditions such as kidney deficiency, energy and blood deficiency, blood heat, blood stasis, and external trauma.

Principles of TCM
The primary methods for stabilizing and protecting pregnancy focus on nourishing the kidneys and replenishing Qi and blood. Herbs are often used for resolving stasis and promoting circulation should be carefully administered based on each person's condition, and treatment should cease as soon as symptoms improve.

Common TCM Classification
Kidney Deficiency: Persistent bleeding early in pregnancy with light, thin blood. Dull abdominal pain, lower back soreness, and aversion to cold.
Qi and Blood Vacuity: Bleeding in early pregnancy, abdominal heaviness, jaundice or pale complexion, easily fatigued. 
Blood Heat: Bleeding with bright red, thick blood. More pronounced abdominal pain, dry mouth and tongue, and hard, dry stools.
Liver constraint: Abdominal distension with slight bleeding after pregnancy, anxiety, gastric pain, hypochondriac distension, acid reflux, poor appetite, and vomiting bitter fluid.
Blood Stagnation: Bleeding with dark blood and clots, lower abdominal pain. History of fibroids or other circulatory issues, and abdominal pain after a fall.

Daily reminders: 
1. During your menstrual cycle, it is best to rest and avoid tiring activities
2. Avoid sexual intercourse, lifting heavy things, and climbing
3. Practice good hygiene and sanitation (masks and washing hands) to avoid catching a cold or other infectious diseases 
4. Maintain smooth bowel movement, avoid straining, drink enough water, and consume enough fiber 
5. Avoid stress and overworking to improve overall circulation