Recurrent Miscarriage Testing Complete
If you've had three or more consecutive miscarriages, most UK hospitals will offer a referral to a specialist recurrent miscarriage clinic for investigation. Testing aims to identify a treatable underlying cause, though it's worth knowing that in a substantial number of cases no clear cause is ever found — and that in itself is not necessarily bad news, as unexplained recurrent miscarriage still carries a reasonably good chance of a future successful pregnancy.
When testing is offered
- The usual NHS threshold is three or more consecutive first-trimester losses, though some clinics will investigate after two, particularly if you're over 35 or have had a later loss.
- Testing is usually arranged once you're not currently pregnant, so results can guide any future pregnancy.
- You'll normally be seen in a dedicated recurrent miscarriage clinic rather than general antenatal services.
What the tests look for
A recurrent miscarriage work-up typically covers several possible causes, since no single test explains every case.
- Blood clotting tests — screening for antiphospholipid syndrome, an autoimmune condition that increases clotting risk and is one of the more common treatable causes.
- Genetic testing (karyotyping) — chromosome analysis of both partners to check for a balanced translocation, a genetic rearrangement that doesn't affect the parents but can cause repeated pregnancy loss.
- Pelvic ultrasound — to look at the shape of the womb, as some structural variations (like a septate uterus) can contribute to loss.
- Hormone and thyroid tests — thyroid function and sometimes prolactin levels, since untreated thyroid problems are linked to miscarriage risk.
- Hysteroscopy — a camera examination of the inside of the womb, used in some cases to look more closely at the uterine cavity.
What happens next
Results can take several weeks to come back, and your consultant will go through the findings with you and discuss whether treatment or extra monitoring is recommended for a future pregnancy. Many couples find waiting for answers stressful — it's reasonable to ask your clinic roughly when to expect results and what the follow-up appointment will cover.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tests are done for recurrent miscarriage?
A typical work-up includes blood tests for antiphospholipid syndrome, chromosome (karyotype) testing for both partners, a pelvic ultrasound to check the shape of the womb, and thyroid function tests. Some clinics also arrange a hysteroscopy to look inside the uterus directly. Which tests you're offered depends on your history and your specialist's assessment.
How long do results take?
This varies by clinic and test type, but several weeks is common, particularly for genetic testing which can take longer to process. Your clinic should give you an estimated timeframe and a follow-up appointment to discuss the results together rather than leaving you to interpret them alone.
Will testing find a cause?
Not always — in a meaningful proportion of recurrent miscarriage cases, no specific cause is identified even after full investigation. This can feel unsatisfying, but unexplained recurrent loss still has a reasonably good outlook for a future pregnancy, particularly with the close monitoring and support a specialist clinic can offer.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
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