Recurrent second trimester pregnancy loss: evaluation and management.
OBJECTIVE
Recurrent pregnancy loss usually refers to first trimester losses. The present article describes the importance of a thorough evaluation for any patient presenting with a second trimester loss, and reviews current data regarding evidence-based evaluation and management for those families who have had recurrent episodes of second trimester losses. A management protocol is presented to guide management of a current pregnancy with a history of recurrent second trimester losses.


RESULTS
Previous literature has focused on isolated causes of second trimester loss and management. The present review incorporates all presentations of loss into a stepwise evaluative and management paradigm.


CONCLUSIONS
This comprehensive literature review and management protocol will provide the clinician with a thorough, systematic, and practical approach to the patient with recurrent pregnancy loss in order to maximize her chance of optimal pregnancy outcome.
Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
Stephanie
S
Dukhovny
Priyanka
P
Zutshi
Jodi F
JF
Abbott
D000026:Abortion, Habitual / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D011247:Pregnancy; D011262:Pregnancy Trimester, Second