Genetic Testing

Studies have concluded that at least half of all first trimester miscarriages are the result of a chromosome abnormality. These are generally random occurrences. They are, however, related to the age of the woman and are more likely to occur with advancing maternal age. Research suggests that, after a couple has had two or more unexplained miscarriages, there is a 2-5% risk that one member of the couple is a carrier of a balanced chromosome rearrangement. Chromosomal testing of the miscarried fetal tissue and of the couple may provide additional important information affecting reproductive decisions and testing recommendations.