EJMS

Abstract

Objective: To compare the Doppler parameters of the uterine arteries and subendometrial vessels of primary idiopathic recurrent early pregnancy failure patients with secondary cases and with control group. Methods: One hundred fifty two patients were recruited; 76 in RPL group and 76 in control group. The RPL group was subdivided into 1ry RPL group (n=33) due to the absence of previous live births, whereas 43 were considered as 2ry RPL group (n=43) with at least one previous live birth followed by three or more consecutive pregnancy losses. In the luteal phase of a natural non-pregnant cycle (day 21-25), trans-vaginal colour and Power Doppler ultrasonography of the uterine arteries and subendometrial vessels were performed. Uterine arterial and subendometrial PI, RI and PSV, endometrial thickness were recorded. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS software version 16. Results: No statistically significant difference was found in the age among the studied groups. A positive correlation between uterine artery PI and age was found but was statistically not significant. The endometrial thickness was lower in the RPL group in general and in the primary RPL group in particular. The RI of the uterine artery and the subendometrial vessels were significantly different between the RPL and control groups as well as between the 1ry and 2ry RPL groups. Conclusion: Women with primary unexplained RPL tend to have higher uterine impedance than secondary RPL which can be related to differences in underlying pathology and may affect the plan of management.