Repeated Miscarriages? What Indian Couples Should Know About the Anti-Phospholipid Antibody Test
Facing repeated miscarriages? Indian couples should know how the Anti-Phospholipid Antibody Test can help diagnose underlying issues and improve chances of a successful pregnancy.
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Last updated on 20th Aug, 2025
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Repeated pregnancy loss is emotionally devastating for couples. Each loss not only brings grief but also anxiety and uncertainty about the future. When miscarriages happen more than once, especially in the first or second trimester, doctors often investigate deeper to find hidden causes. Among these, antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is one condition that can silently affect a woman’s ability to carry a pregnancy to term. A simple blood test called the antiphospholipid antibody test can help detect this condition. It’s one of the key investigations when doctors are looking into repeated miscarriage causes, particularly when standard tests show no problems. This article explains what the antiphospholipid antibody test is, why it’s important for Indian couples facing recurrent pregnancy loss, what the results mean, and how Apollo 24|7 makes it easier to access reliable testing across the country.
Understanding Repeated Miscarriages and APS
A miscarriage is defined as the loss of a pregnancy before 20 weeks. While one miscarriage is sadly common and often due to random genetic factors, repeated miscarriages (two or more in a row) are less common and need thorough evaluation. One of the lesser-known but treatable causes of recurrent miscarriage is antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). APS is an autoimmune condition in which the body mistakenly produces antibodies that target phospholipids, natural components of cell membranes. These antibodies can make blood more likely to clot, affecting blood flow to the placenta and developing baby.
If untreated, APS can lead to:
- Early miscarriages
- Stillbirths
- Complications like pre-eclampsia (high blood pressure in pregnancy)
- Growth restriction in the baby
The antiphospholipid antibody test helps detect these harmful antibodies so that doctors can start treatment early, improving the chances of a healthy pregnancy.
What Are Antiphospholipid Antibodies?
Antiphospholipid antibodies are abnormal proteins made by the immune system that target certain fats and proteins in the body. The three main antibodies tested are:
- Lupus Anticoagulant (LA): Interferes with the body’s clotting system.
- Anticardiolipin Antibodies (aCL): Can damage the lining of blood vessels.
- Beta-2 Glycoprotein I Antibodies (β2GPI): Linked to increased risk of clotting and pregnancy loss.
Having these antibodies doesn’t always cause symptoms outside pregnancy, which is why APS often goes unnoticed until a woman faces repeated miscarriage causes without an explanation.
When Is the Antiphospholipid Antibody Test Recommended?
Doctors may recommend this test if you have:
- Two or more consecutive miscarriages before 10 weeks
- One or more unexplained stillbirths after 10 weeks
- Severe pre-eclampsia or eclampsia before 34 weeks
- Unexplained blood clots (deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism)
- Recurrent pregnancy complications such as poor foetal growth
If you have a personal or family history of autoimmune diseases (like lupus), your doctor may suggest testing even earlier in your fertility journey.
Why Does This Test Matters for Indian Couples?
In India, lifestyle factors, undiagnosed autoimmune conditions, and limited access to specialised testing can mean APS goes undetected for years. Many women only discover they have antiphospholipid antibodies after multiple miscarriages, by which time emotional and physical tolls are high. Getting the antiphospholipid antibody test after two miscarriages, rather than waiting for three, can speed up diagnosis and open the door to preventive treatments like blood thinners and aspirin during pregnancy. This proactive approach can make a real difference for couples trying to start or grow their family.
Book Anti Phospholipid Antibody IgM Test Here
How Does the Antiphospholipid Antibody Test Work?
This is a simple blood test that checks for the presence of lupus anticoagulant, anticardiolipin antibodies, and beta-2 glycoprotein I antibodies.
What to Expect:
- Sample Collection: A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm.
- Preparation: No fasting is required. However, inform your doctor about any medications, especially blood thinners or steroids, as they can affect results.
- Timing: Results are usually ready within 2–3 days.
- Repeat Testing: To confirm diagnosis, tests are typically repeated 12 weeks apart, because transient antibodies can appear during infections and then disappear.
Understanding the Results
Here’s what the results mean:
- Negative: No antiphospholipid antibodies detected. Your miscarriages are likely due to other causes, and your doctor will investigate further.
- Positive (One or More Antibodies): Indicates possible APS. If antibodies are still present on repeat testing after 12 weeks, APS is diagnosed.
- Borderline Results: May require follow-up testing or additional clotting studies.
Your doctor will interpret these results alongside your medical history, pregnancy records, and other investigations to create a personalised treatment plan.
Treatment After a Positive Result
The good news is that APS is treatable. Once diagnosed, women can often carry pregnancies to term with the right management:
- Low-Dose Aspirin: Helps prevent blood clots in the placenta.
- Heparin Injections: A safe blood thinner used during pregnancy.
- Close Monitoring: More frequent scans and check-ups to ensure baby’s growth and health.
- Starting treatment early in pregnancy, ideally before conception or as soon as pregnancy is confirmed, gives the best chance for success.
Note: Medications should only be prescribed and used under a gynaecologist’s guidance.
Emotional Support for Couples
Repeated pregnancy loss can be emotionally exhausting. Alongside medical testing like the antiphospholipid antibody test, couples often need psychological support to cope with grief, anxiety, and fear of future loss. Joining support groups, speaking to a counsellor, or involving both partners in consultations can help strengthen resilience during the journey.
Book Anti Phospholipid Antibody IgM Test Here
Booking the Antiphospholipid Antibody Test with Apollo 24|7
Apollo 24|7 makes it easy for couples to access this essential test anywhere in India—whether you live in a metro city or a smaller town.
Here are the recommended test options:
- Anti Phospholipid Antibody IgG – Detects IgG-type antibodies linked to APS.
- Anti Phospholipid Antibody IgM – Detects IgM-type antibodies, which may appear in early stages of APS.
Why Choose Apollo 24|7?
Here’s why you should choose Apollo 24|7 as you diagnostic partner:
- Home Sample Collection: Convenient, especially if you’re recovering after a miscarriage.
- Accurate Reports: Trusted by fertility specialists across India.
- Quick Turnaround: Get results online without extra clinic visits.
- Pan-India Network: Access to top pathology labs in cities and towns.
Conclusion
For Indian couples facing repeated miscarriages, understanding repeated miscarriage causes is a vital first step towards a healthy pregnancy. The antiphospholipid antibody test is one of the most important investigations your doctor may recommend, especially when losses are unexplained. If APS is detected, timely treatment can make a world of difference, transforming repeated heartbreak into the joy of a full-term pregnancy. Apollo 24|7 offers a reliable, accessible way to book and complete this test, ensuring couples have the answers they need without unnecessary delays. If you or someone you know has experienced two or more miscarriages, don’t wait for another loss before seeking help. Speak to your doctor about the antiphospholipid antibody test and take a proactive step towards protecting your next pregnancy. A healthy pregnancy after repeated miscarriages is possible, with the right tests, timely diagnosis, and supportive care.