About the Author
Kelly Ang
TCM Practitioner
What Causes Miscarriage, and How TCM Helps Prevent Recurrent Pregnancy Loss: A Clear Guide for TTC Couples After Loss
Miscarriage Is More Common Than Many Realize
Experiencing a miscarriage is emotionally and physically overwhelming. Many couples question what went wrong or blame themselves, even when they were doing everything right. In reality, miscarriage is more common than most people expect, especially in early pregnancy.
Western medicine often identifies causes such as chromosomal issues, hormonal imbalance, immune response, or implantation challenges.
"This is where Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a complementary and whole-body approach, focusing not only on conception but on the body’s ability to hold and sustain a pregnancy safely."
Why Do Miscarriages Happen? A TCM Perspective That Connects With Modern Life
While Western medicine looks at specific measurable factors, TCM looks at the overall environment in which pregnancy develops — the mother’s energy, circulation, warmth, nutrition, and emotional state.
Below are the most common TCM root causes, explained in simple, real-life terms:
Kidney Deficiency 肾虚
In TCM, “Kidney” governs reproductive health. In modern terms, this can relate to low ovarian reserve, hormonal imbalances, or chronic fatigue. Women who had multiple pregnancies, late pregnancies, or prolonged stress may experience this pattern.
Symptoms may include lower back weakness, frequent urination, feeling cold, or exhaustion.
Qi & Blood Deficiency 气血不足
“Qi” is the body’s energy, and “Blood” is the vital nutrient flow. Western parallels include low energy, anemia, poor circulation, or malnutrition. Modern lifestyles — irregular meals, skipping breakfast, high-stress work, or postpartum recovery — can deplete energy and blood quality.
This affects uterine health and the ability to nourish the embryo. Signs may include paleness, dizziness, fatigue, or cold hands and feet.
Blood Stagnation 血瘀
In TCM, stagnant blood means poor flow or blockages. In Western terms, it can resemble poor pelvic blood circulation, uterine fibroids, endometriosis, clotting disorders, or inflammation. This can affect embryo implantation or lead to spotting and cramps.
Women who experience painful or irregular periods, clotting during menstruation, or pelvic discomfort may have this pattern. Lifestyle factors like sedentary work, stress, and lack of gentle exercise can worsen stagnation.
Liver Qi Stagnation (Stress) 肝瘀
The liver in TCM governs the smooth flow of emotions and hormones. In modern understanding, chronic stress elevates cortisol, which can disrupt ovulation, progesterone production, and menstrual regularity. Emotional tension, frustration, or unresolved stress can lead to hormonal imbalances and uterine tension.
Women often feel irritability, tightness in chest/abdomen, PMS, or irregular cycles. Lifestyle factors such as long work hours, emotional stress, or suppressed emotions contribute.
Heat or Dampness in the Uterus 宫热/ 宫寒
This TCM pattern reflects inflammation, excess fluid retention, or metabolic imbalance. Western parallels may include chronic low-grade inflammation, insulin resistance, recurring infections, digestive issues, or high-sugar diets. Excess “heat” or “dampness” creates an unfavorable environment for embryo implantation.
Symptoms may include bloating, heavy or dark menstrual flow, acne, digestive discomfort, or yeast infections. Lifestyle habits like high sugar intake, processed foods, poor hydration, and lack of movement may worsen this condition.
A Real-Life Success: Overcoming Fertility Challenges After Miscarriage, Naturally Pregnant and Healthy in the Third Trimester (Ms. Goh, 36)
How Does TCM Help Prevent Recurrent Pregnancy Loss?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) helps prevent miscarriage by strengthening the body, improving circulation, balancing hormones, and supporting emotional well-being. Personalized herbal formulas nourish the uterus, while acupuncture promotes blood flow, regulates hormones, and reduces stress.
Combined with professional lifestyle guidance—such as warm, nourishing meals, gentle exercise, and adequate rest, TCM provides a natural, whole-body approach to prepare the body for conception and support a healthy pregnancy.
Acupuncture
By stimulating key points, acupuncture improves blood flow to reproductive organs, regulates hormones, reduces stress, and supports overall sperm health.
Herbal Prescription
Customized herbal prescriptions are formulated to enhance sperm count, motility, and vitality. Unlike generic supplements, these formulas are tailored to each individual’s body condition.