The relationship between recurrent pregnancy loss and obesity

Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is a multifactorial condition, with approximately 50% of cases classified as unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss (URPL). This study investigates the association between body mass index (BMI) and RPL, focusing on gestational week at miscarriage, the number of pregnancy losses, and BMI as a predictive marker for RPL. This retrospective cohort study included 400 women aged 20–40 diagnosed with RPL who attended Şanlıurfa Training and Research Hospital between November 6, 2021, and November 6, 2023. Participants were classified into four groups based on BMI categories: underweight (<18.5 kg/m², n=50), normal weight (18.5–24.9 kg/m², n=150), overweight (25.0–29.9 kg/m², n=120), and obese (≥30.0 kg/m², n=80). Obese women had the earliest mean gestational week at miscarriage (6.8±1.3 weeks) and the highest average number of pregnancy losses (3.0±0.6).  Obesity is a significant risk factor for RPL, leading to earlier pregnancy losses and increased miscarriage frequency. Weight management should be prioritized to improve pregnancy outcomes, and future research should explore additional obesity-related factors contributing to RPL.