Autoimmune Disorders
For reasons that are not clear, certain women can begin to produce antibodies to substances in their own bodies. One group of these antibodies are called antiphospholipid antibodies. The two most important of these antibodies are anticardiolipin and lupus anticoagulant. The presence of these antibodies is a well-recognized cause of pregnancy loss. These antibodies can be detected by blood tests. Treatment with low-dose aspirin (one baby aspirin a day) and heparin is the preferred treatment. At times, steroids may have to be added to the treatment, but the risk of side effects increases dramatically if steroids are used.
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