Immune disorders

The immune system is designed to recognise and attack foreign substances within the body. Antibodies are formed to help the body fight off disease and heal itself in case of infection.

Normally, the mother's body protects the "foreign" fetus from attack by her own antibodies. It is thought that this protection could be absent in the blood of some women who have had repeated pregnancy loss.

Other immune system problems are caused by differences between the mother and the fetus and even between the mother and the father.

For instance, the mother's immune system could produce antibodies to the cells of her body. This can cause pregnancy loss.

Tests can be done that may help find problems with the immune system.