Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is estimated to occur in 1%–3% of all pregnancies. Other estimates indicate that anywhere from 12% to nearly one-third or one-half of all miscarriages occur without a patient’s knowledge, appearing like late menstruation. Evidence supports an increased risk of miscarriage as females age, with women ages 18–20 having a 12% chance of miscarriage. As women age, it incrementally increases to a 25% chance in women ages 40–42 and 50% or more in women ages 43–46. By definition, miscarriage is a pregnancy that is involuntarily terminated before 20 weeks of gestation or if the fetal weight is below 500g. A loss of pregnancy after 20 weeks is considered a premature birth or stillbirth. While age is a considerable factor, there are several reasons for a spontaneous loss, including fetal genetic abnormalities, anatomical factors, immunological factors, endocrine imbalances, bacterial infections, environmental toxicities, and lifestyle factors.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Kidney Essence (Jing), Yin, Yang, and Qi provide direction, energy, and substance to the reproductive system. The quality and balance of qi, jing, yin and yang of organ systems involved in fertility (liver, kidney, Spleen and heart) determine egg health in the female and sperm health in the male. TCM theory states that a decline in the vital energies is a significant contributing factor to miscarriage but is not the primary reason.
Essence, Yin, Yang, and Qi naturally decline with age, but can be accelerated as a result of poor self-care, overworking, poor diet, drug/alcohol abuse, unresolved emotions, and/or excessive stress. Recent research suggests that acupuncture could play a role in preventing miscarriages in women undergoing in-vitro fertilization (IVF). Receiving Acupuncture and taking Herbs and supplements for at least three months prior to pregnancy/IVF will optimize fertility and healthy pregnancy outcome.