How is recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) defined?

Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is defined as experiencing three or more consecutive pregnancy losses before the 20th week of gestation. This definition is widely accepted in both clinical practice and research, as it establishes a clear criterion for identifying individuals who may need further evaluation for underlying causes of these losses.

The designation of three losses is important because it acknowledges the complexity and emotional toll of experiencing multiple miscarriages, which can significantly impact a patient's mental and physical health. It also serves as a threshold for healthcare providers to consider further diagnostic workup, as such a pattern may suggest potential genetic, anatomical, hormonal, or immunological issues that could be addressed to improve future pregnancy outcomes.

In contrast, definitions that involve two or four or more losses either narrow the population needing evaluation too tightly or extend it beyond what is typically recognized in clinical guidelines. Therefore, the three-loss criterion is crucial for accurate assessment and management of individuals facing recurrent pregnancy loss.