Factors related to subsequent reproductive outcome in couples with repeated pregnancy loss.

Specific factors in a couple's history may influence the recurrence risk following repeated pregnancy loss (RPL). Couples with RPL were contacted several years following evaluation and information concerning subsequent pregnancies was obtained. Linear regression analysis was utilized to determine which factors in the history were significant predictors of pregnancy outcome following evaluation. A family history of RPL or a "genetic defect" was a highly significant predictor of subsequent unsuccessful pregnancies. Surgical, but not medical, treatment for RPL was a significant predictor of eventual successful outcome. The number of abortions prior to evaluation for RPL, presence of a liveborn child, maternal age at evaluation, and intercurrent infertility all failed to be significant predictors of pregnancy outcome after evaluation.