In a pilotstudy about medical, psychological and psychosocial factors in spontaneous and recurrent spontaneous abortions 47 women were investigated. 26 of them had one, 14 tow and 7 three or more recurrent spontaneous abortions. Etiologic factors were unknown in about 90% of the cases. Illnesses observed were allergies, thyroid diseases and infections. An influence of social and psychosocial factors could not be proved in our sample. Psychological relevant factors were higher levels of fear and depressive and evasive coping strategies in pregnancy. Certain personality traits (vulnerability, nervousness and tendency to psychosomatic reactions) were found in women with three or more recurrent abortions. All patients showed depressive reactions to pregnancy loss. In a further investigation well defined subgroups of patients shall be compared. The results can serve as guidelines in pregnancy counselling.
Abortion, Habitual Abortion, Spontaneous