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Experts develop online tool that predicts a woman’s miscarriage risk
- Online calculator asks questions and works out chance of successful pregnancy
- It uses information on age, BMI and previous miscarriages to determine risk
- Experts say it gives information and support to those considering pregnancy
Experts have developed an online tool to predict a woman’s chances of a having a miscarriage.
The online calculator asks women a series of health questions and uses an algorithm to work out their likelihood of a successful pregnancy.
They are then offered given personalised advice on tests, treatment and lifestyle changes.
Researchers from the University of Warwick worked alongside Tommy’s National Centre for Miscarriage Research.
It uses information on age, BMI, number of previous miscarriages, polycystic ovaries diagnosis and number of previous live births – to accurately determine the probability of a successful next pregnancy.
Professor Siobhan Quenby, a consultant at University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire, analysed data from people who attended the Coventry Miscarriage Clinic.
Researchers from the University of Warwick worked alongside Tommy’s National Centre for Miscarriage Research. It uses information on age, BMI, number of previous miscarriages, polycystic ovaries diagnosis and number of previous live births – to accurately determine the probability of a successful next pregnancy
The online calculator asks women a series of health questions and uses an algorithm to work out their likelihood of a successful pregnancy
Researchers from the University of Warwick worked alongside Tommy’s National Centre for Miscarriage Research. It gathers information including date of birth, location and ethnicity
The tool also gathers information on height and weight to calculate miscarriage risk, along with number of previous miscarriages, polycystic ovaries diagnosis and number of previous live births
She said: ‘In my experience, parents often feel so anxious after their miscarriage experience that it’s difficult to have the confidence to try again.
‘This fantastic tool gives information and support to help them as they consider a next pregnancy.’
Treatment and testing for miscarriage causes varies across the UK, with women in some parts of the country not offered the care they are entitled to, charities warn.
They hope the tool will allow everyone accessible advice and support they need for their pregnancy.
Researchers said the data it generates will also assist the understanding the factors that increase the risk of miscarriage.
Sharon Dhliwayo, who has previously experienced a miscarriage, a stillbirth and a pre-term birth, said she found it ‘very empowering’.
She said: ‘If your GP hasn’t offered you a test or treatment, you can now ask because you know.’
The calculator can be found at www.miscarriagetool.tommys.org