SA's IVF Leader Since 1982
Treatments & Services

Compassionate Care for Those Facing Pregnancy Loss

We understand that having multiple pregnancy losses is devastating. Every pregnancy brings a sense of hope, and every loss brings pain and uncertainty. You are not alone if you have been through this, and sadly, it is a lot more common than many people think. Miscarriage can affect up to one in four pregnancies. And some have the misfortune of experiencing recurrent pregnancy loss, which is defined as two or more consecutive pregnancy losses before 20 weeks of gestation. Fortunately, in most cases, the causes of miscarriages are identifiable and can be treated.

At Flinders Fertility, our Recurrent Pregnancy Loss Clinic, under the leadership of Medical Director, Prof Neil Johnson and Clinical Director, Dr Toby Angstmann offers you expert investigation and evidence-based treatment. We want to assist you in understanding why this is happening to you and help you achieve a successful pregnancy.

Investigating the Causes of Recurrent Pregnancy Loss

Multiple factors may cause recurrent pregnancy loss, and identifying the cause is the first step toward a solution. At our clinic, we offer a full assessment which may involve the following;

1. Genetic Testing

  • Parental Karyotyping – A blood test to check for chromosomal abnormalities in either parent.
  • Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT-A) – Screening of embryos during IVF for chromosomal abnormalities that may cause miscarriage.

2. Uterine & Structural Assessments

  • 3D Ultrasound & Hysteroscopy – To detect uterine abnormalities such as fibroids, polyps, septum, or scarring.
  • Saline Infusion Ultrasound (Sonohysterogram) – A detailed assessment of the uterus and endometrial lining.

3. Hormonal & Metabolic Screening

  • Thyroid function testing – Because an under active or over active thyroid can increase the risk of miscarriage.
  • PCOS & Insulin Resistance Testing – Hormonal imbalances may interfere with the maintenance of pregnancy.
  • Progesterone Levels – To assess luteal phase support.

4. Blood Clotting & Immune System Testing

  • Thrombophilia Screening – To identify inherited or acquired coagulopathies such as Factor V Leiden or antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).
  • Natural Killer (NK) Cell Testing – Investigating whether immune responses may be preventing successful pregnancy progression.

5. Sperm Quality Assessment

  • DNA Fragmentation Testing – High levels of sperm DNA damage are known to contribute to pregnancy loss.

Personalised Treatment Plans

Once we identify the underlying cause, we develop a tailored treatment plan to improve your chances of a healthy pregnancy. This may include:

  • Lifestyle & Nutritional Support – Enhancing fertility through small but powerful changes.
  • Hormonal Therapy – Addressing thyroid imbalances, progesterone deficiency, or insulin resistance.
  • Blood-Thinning Medication – Helping women with clotting disorders sustain a pregnancy.
  • Immunotherapy – Regulating immune system responses that may impact pregnancy.
  • Surgical Correction – Removing fibroids, polyps, or uterine scarring that may affect implantation.
  • Optimised IVF & PGT-A Screening – Reducing miscarriage risk through advanced embryo selection.

We know that every pregnancy loss brings fear for the future, but you don’t have to go through this alone.

Want to find out more?

For more information, book an appointment with Prof. Neil Johnson or Dr Toby Angstmann. Please mention that you are booking a recurrent pregnancy loss appointment to ensure that the appropriate consultation is selected.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Recurrent pregnancy loss is defined as two or more consecutive pregnancy losses before 20 weeks gestation. If you have experienced multiple losses, it is important to undergo further evaluation

Some of the main causes include:

  • Genetic abnormalities – Either in the embryo or due to parental chromosomal translocations.
  • Uterine issues – Fibroids, adhesions, or a uterine septum.
  • Hormonal imbalances – Thyroid dysfunction, PCOS, or low progesterone.
  • Blood clotting disorders – Conditions like Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) or Factor V Leiden.
  • Immune system overactivity – Overactive natural killer (NK) cells affecting implantation.
  • Sperm DNA fragmentation – Poor sperm integrity affecting embryo development.

Patients should expect an in-depth discussion of their medical history and lifestyle, and a review of previous results and treatment. Additional tests may also be required. Once we have a thorough understanding of your situation, we’ll recommend the next steps.

Even when no clear cause is found, many couples go on to have a successful pregnancy naturally or with minor interventions. A personalised care plan can help improve pregnancy outcomes.

Not necessarily. Many women can conceive naturally after treatment. However, IVF with preimplantation genetic testing (PGT-A) may be recommended if chromosomal abnormalities are a concern.