The clinical studies that have examined the relationship between endometriosis and miscarriage have not exactly produced conclusive results. It is hard to say if indeed endometriosis creates a higher risk of having a miscarriage. There are arguments both for and against whether endometriosis can cause miscarriage, and fertility specialists tend to be rather divided on the issue.
Endometriosis is known to causes difficulties with conception. In this regard, women who have endometriosis carry a higher risk of not being able to conceive in the first place. In this sense, the risk of miscarriage becomes something of a secondary concern for the woman with endometriosis.
There are certain things that are definitively known to carry a higher risk of miscarriage. These can include:
- Chronic diseases, such as diabetes or thyroid problems. Kidney disease and lupus are also thought to contribute to higher miscarriage rates.
- Temporary illness. Some of the most dangerous temporary illnesses in terms of miscarriage include rubella (also known as German measles), as well as bacterial vaginosis. If you have previously had rubella or if you have had an MMR shot, you are much less likely to have rubella that would lead to a miscarriage. Bacterial vaginosis often has no symptoms, but your physician can detect it with a test.
- Chromosomal abnormalities. The majority of miscarriages are thought to be caused by chromosomal abnormalities. Unless you have had several miscarriages, you will likely not be tested for chromosomal abnormalities.
- Lifestyle choices. Smoking, alcohol abuse, large caffeine intake, chemical exposure, radiation exposure, and stress may all contribute to miscarriage.
If endometriosis does carry a higher risk of miscarriage, studies have shown that treating the endometriosis may help to lessen the risks. Beyond the management of endometriosis, there are other important things that a woman can do to lessen the risks of miscarriage. These things include managing chronic diseases, and avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco. Doing these things will generally reduce your risks of miscarriage much more than anything else that you can do.
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