Progesterone and Miscarriage

Pregnancy Hormones: Progesterone and Beta HCG

Progesterone is a steroid hormone involved in pregnancy. It functions by preparing the lining of the uterus into a "nourishing" lining for the embryo. It also plays a critical part in developing immune tolerance for the embryo in two ways:

  1. The hormone attaches to white blood cells in the uterine lining in order to create a molecule that stops the mother's immune system from attacking the embryo. The molecule does this by destroying the cells that make inflammatory cytokines and assisting in the production of protective antibodies.
  2. The hormone also goes into the mother's blood and begins the process of creating cells that migrate into the uterine cavity and assist the embryo in implanting.

When progesterone fails to do perform these functions, it can result in the mother's immune system attacking the embryo. This is one of the ways in which multiple miscarriages occur. Beta HCG is another type of pregnancy hormone that is designed to protect an embryo from being attacked by the mother's immune system. It does this by binding to immune cells called "dendritic cells," which helps build a tolerance in the mother for the embryo. It is also capable of leading to miscarriage, however, when the body fails to make it in sufficient amounts or when it is misshapen. When this happens, the embryo is unable to create immune tolerance for itself and is attacked.

Preventing Miscarriage Through Reproductive Immunology

If you have experienced recurrent miscarriage due to progesterone or beta HCG issues, it is recommended that you contact Dr. Braverman as soon as possible. Dr. Braverman is a specialist in the area of reproductive immunology and has helped countless individuals who were unable to maintain a healthy pregnancy. Our medical staff will be able to craft a plan for your specific case that is designed to restore your body's natural ability to perform the function of childbirth.

If you are seeking a way to correct the condition causing your recurrent miscarriages, contact Dr. Braverman for help today.