Can this happen again?
Recurrence risk depends entirely on the underlying mechanism — which is why finding the cause matters so much.
Recurrence risk is not one number. It depends on what caused the problem in the first place, and it can range from under one percent to one in four.
How risk varies by cause
- Most sporadic chromosomal changes: around 1% above the age-related background risk
- Recessive single-gene conditions where both parents are carriers: 25% in each pregnancy
- Dominant conditions inherited from an affected parent: 50% in each pregnancy
- A balanced translocation in a parent: risk depends on the specific rearrangement
- New de novo changes: usually low, but parental mosaicism must be excluded
Planning ahead
Once the mechanism is known, options become concrete: preconception counselling, prenatal diagnosis early in the next pregnancy, or preimplantation genetic testing through IVF where appropriate.
This page is general information and is not a substitute for a consultation. Every pregnancy is assessed individually.
Continue reading.
Most pregnancy complications are not anyone's fault. Understanding the underlying cause is the first step towards answers.
Genetic testing is not routine for everyone. It is indicated when the result would change diagnosis, management or future planning.
Carrier screening identifies healthy adults who carry a recessive gene change that could affect their children.
Bring your reports. We'll find the cause together.
Consultations at Apollo Cradle, Apollo Fertility, AIFMRG and Epic International, Hyderabad.