Fragile Happiness: The Moment of Delivering a Child After 5 Miscarriages and the Worries of a Doctor
By Dr. Nalinee Chansiri – Obstetrician and Gynecologist, Samitivej Sukhumvit Hospital, Bangkok
I will never forget that birth. A 40-year-old mother, after 5 consecutive miscarriages, finally held her first child in her arms. When the baby's first cry rang out, the mother burst into tears, her husband cried too, and I – despite having experienced hundreds of births – could not hold back my tears. It was a triumphant joy after months of tears and fragile hope.
However, behind that miraculous moment was a worrying reality: more and more women in Thailand and Southeast Asia are facing recurrent miscarriages without access to timely and specialized medical services.
Miscarriage is not uncommon – but when it happens again, it is a warning sign
According to statistics from the World Health Organization (WHO), about 10–15% of pregnancies will end in spontaneous miscarriage. Of these, about 1–2% of women experience recurrent miscarriage (3 or more consecutive miscarriages).
In Thailand, a study at Mahidol University noted that nearly 30% of women over 35 years old have difficulty conceiving or have problems maintaining a stable pregnancy, most of which are not clearly diagnosed due to lack of access to specialized medical care, especially in the provinces.
Complex causes – not just hormonal or genetic
Many factors can lead to recurrent miscarriage, including:
Endocrine disorders: such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), progesterone deficiency, uncontrolled diabetes.
Genetic abnormalities in the embryo or from the parents.
Abnormal uterus: uterine septum, uterine fibroids, uterine adhesions.
Immunology: antiphospholipid syndrome.
Cardiovascular problems: such as high blood pressure, congenital heart disease, or abnormal placental blood vessels – often overlooked.
Yes, cardiovascular disease can also silently affect the ability to have a healthy pregnancy. Lack of blood flow to the uterus, blood clotting disorders, or high blood pressure are factors that cause abnormal development of the placenta, leading to miscarriage in the first or second trimester.
When losing a child becomes a silent wound
I once counseled a 33-year-old woman, a teacher, who had just suffered her third miscarriage. She no longer believed in herself, tormented herself, and silently endured the pain alone. Her family did not know how to comfort her.
Recurrent miscarriage is not just a biological problem – it is a deep psychological trauma that can lead to depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and long-term effects on quality of life and marital happiness.
Why you need to go to a specialist clinic – you can’t just “wait for better luck next time”
In many cases, women who have had multiple miscarriages are often advised to… wait longer. But with my expertise, I know clearly: every time you lose a pregnancy, your health, uterus, and spirit are more severely damaged.
Visiting specialized obstetrics and gynecology centers, where there are:
Color Doppler ultrasound systems, 4D ultrasound to evaluate placental circulation
Specialized genetic and coagulation testing
Comprehensive immune and endocrine assessment
Support for the diagnosis of silent cardiovascular diseases such as gestational hypertension, microvascular disease, etc.
... is a mandatory step to prevent further loss.
Timely Diagnosis – Early Action Saves the Dream of Motherhood
At Samitivej Sukhumvit Hospital, where I work, we work with obstetricians, gynaecologists, endocrinologists, cardiologists and geneticists to develop a complex pregnancy management program for women who have had recurrent miscarriages.
Multidisciplinary collaboration, state-of-the-art equipment and individualised assessment are what helped the 40-year-old mother I delivered survive to 38 weeks – and deliver a healthy 3.2kg baby.
Advice from a doctor – and a woman
I speak not only as a doctor – but also as a woman who understands the pressures, traumas and desires of motherhood. My message:
“If you have ever lost a child, give yourself a chance to understand your body. Find a place with expertise, equipment, and someone who listens to you as a person, not a case.”
Pregnancy is not always a smooth journey – but you are not alone
There are happinesses that need to be overcome with tears. There are children who come after many disappointments. As a doctor, I am always grateful to be with you on that journey – and I will continue to say this, so that women like you know: there is always a chance, if you are cared for properly, at the right time.
If you are in need of personal advice or want to explore your reproductive health in depth after multiple miscarriages, you can make an appointment at Samitivej Hospital or consult online with me – Dr. Nalinee Chansiri.
The door to motherhood is still open – I will always be there, to help you through.
