Chromosome 9 Issues After Miscarriage: Genetic Concerns and Next Steps - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Is it a genetic issue with the parents if abnormalities are found in chromosome 9 after a miscarriage?


Previously, my wife (34 years old) was pregnant (first pregnancy).
After about 6 weeks, an ultrasound showed a heartbeat, and we received the baby handbook.
However, at around 10 weeks, she experienced abnormal bleeding, so we rushed back for a check-up.
It turned out that the baby had stopped developing at 8 weeks.
We had to make the painful decision to undergo a procedure to remove the baby.
After the examination of the embryo, the doctor informed us that there was an extra pair of chromosome 9, which caused the miscarriage.
The doctor explained that this could have resulted from an extra pair of chromosomes during cell division from either the father or the mother.
They advised us that we could try to conceive again, considering both of our ages.
At that moment, I didn’t ask the doctor many questions and left, but later I had several questions I wanted to ask but didn’t know where to start.
I would like to know about chromosome 9.
I have seen some information suggesting that issues with this chromosome are primarily caused by the male's chromosomes, which makes me feel a bit guilty and scared.
Therefore, I plan to undergo a pre-marital health check-up.
Is it appropriate to check for chromosomal issues during this examination? From what I understand, it seems to focus mainly on general blood tests and sperm analysis, and I have only found information online regarding the inversion of chromosome 9, but there is little about the issue of having an extra chromosome leading to miscarriage.
Are we particularly unusual in this regard? Or is it that problems with chromosome 9 are generally similar, just referred to differently?
Will the results of the embryo examination after the miscarriage affect future pregnancies? I am a bit apprehensive due to this experience.
Additionally, during the pre-marital health check-up, there is an X-ray examination for males.
Will this affect future pregnancies? I understand that the female side has stricter requirements, needing to ensure there is no pregnancy beforehand.
However, after an X-ray examination, will it impact sperm quality? Or is there a recommended waiting period before engaging in sexual intercourse after the examination?
Lastly, is it okay to prepare for pregnancy about 2 months after the miscarriage? I am unsure when the female reproductive system will fully recover, and I will need to consult the doctor again for the next steps.

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/04/30

Dr. Chen Zhiyu reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Regarding your concerns, here are the responses:
1.
You should not blame yourself.
The chances of chromosomal abnormalities during pregnancy increase with advanced maternal age.
Such defects are often naturally eliminated during the embryonic development process.
Excessive measures to maintain the pregnancy can sometimes lead to greater disappointment and regret.
2.
Each pregnancy is an independent event.
Unless there are pre-existing chromosomal abnormalities in either parent (whether due to an excess or deficiency in chromosome number, or fragment loss), the next pregnancy may not be related to the previous unsuccessful one.
3.
From a genetic perspective, if there are more than three spontaneous miscarriages, it is recommended that both partners undergo a comprehensive chromosomal blood test.
This can be further consulted through an obstetrics and gynecology department at a hospital.
Currently, such tests are typically out-of-pocket expenses.
4.
X-ray examinations during health check-ups do not affect fertility, so there is no need for excessive worry.
5.
After a miscarriage, as long as your physical condition has recovered and your menstrual cycle is regular, it is a good time to conceive again.
This varies for each individual, and it is not necessarily required to use contraception while waiting, as this may lead to missed opportunities.
Thank you for your questions, and I wish you health and happiness.

Reply Date: 2021/04/30

More Info


I'm sorry to hear about your recent experience with miscarriage. It's a challenging situation, and it's understandable to have many questions and concerns, especially regarding genetic issues and future pregnancies. Let's address your concerns step by step.


Chromosome 9 and Miscarriage
The presence of an extra chromosome, known as trisomy, can lead to developmental issues in embryos, often resulting in miscarriage. In your case, the report indicated an extra chromosome 9, which is a type of chromosomal abnormality that can occur due to errors during cell division (meiosis). These errors can happen in either the sperm or the egg, and they are not necessarily indicative of a problem with either parent's overall health or fertility.

It's important to note that chromosomal abnormalities are relatively common in miscarriages, especially in the first trimester. Most of the time, these abnormalities are random events and do not reflect a pattern that would affect future pregnancies. However, if you and your partner are concerned about genetic issues, you might consider genetic counseling. A genetic counselor can help you understand the implications of the findings and discuss any further testing that may be appropriate.


Preconception Health Checks
Regarding your plan for preconception health checks, it's a good idea to undergo a comprehensive evaluation. While standard preconception checks may not specifically target chromosomal issues, they can assess overall health and identify any potential risk factors for future pregnancies. If you are particularly concerned about chromosomal abnormalities, you might want to discuss this with your healthcare provider, who can guide you on whether specific genetic testing is warranted.


Concerns About Male Factors
You mentioned concerns about the male chromosome contributing to the miscarriage. While it is true that sperm quality can influence pregnancy outcomes, chromosomal abnormalities are often random. If you are worried about your partner's genetic contribution, a semen analysis can provide insight into sperm health, but it may not directly address chromosomal issues.


X-ray Exposure and Future Pregnancies
Regarding the X-ray examination during the preconception health check, it's important to note that while X-rays can expose the body to radiation, the levels used in standard diagnostic imaging are generally considered safe for males and do not significantly affect sperm quality or future pregnancies. However, if there are specific concerns about radiation exposure, it’s best to discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on how long to wait after an X-ray before trying to conceive, although typically, the impact on sperm is minimal.


Timing for Trying Again
After a miscarriage, it is often recommended to wait for at least one menstrual cycle before trying to conceive again. This allows the body to heal and can help in dating the next pregnancy more accurately. However, many healthcare providers will say that if you feel emotionally and physically ready, you can try to conceive sooner. The recovery time can vary from person to person, so it's essential to listen to your body and consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.


Conclusion
In summary, while the experience of miscarriage can be distressing, it is often a result of random chromosomal abnormalities rather than a reflection of future fertility. Engaging in preconception health checks, discussing genetic counseling, and understanding the implications of any tests can help you feel more prepared for future pregnancies. It's also crucial to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your concerns and questions. They can provide the most accurate information tailored to your specific situation. Take care, and I wish you the best in your journey ahead.

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