Author Archives: Dr. Matzner

Reproductive Immunology Testing and Treatment at RIA Labs

We started providing reproductive immunology testing in 1989 to treat recurrent miscarriages and help couples and individuals have the babies they wanted so very much. As pioneers in reproductive immunology, we have refined our testing and treatment in very specific and thorough protocols. To date, we have diagnosed and treated hundreds of families. This blog post provides an overview of… Read more »

Reproductive Immunology Experts Answer Questions about Miscarriage

“Why did I lose my baby?” That poignant question is asked by millions of women each year. Too often (about half the time) no answer can be found. Once a woman suffers a miscarriage, the joy of future pregnancies will always be somewhat muted by chronic worry and the sudden fear that asserts itself with each twinge or unusual feeling:… Read more »

Reproductive Immunology Treatment Results in Birth after Miscarriages

Case Study: Reproductive Immunology Treatment Success after Four Miscarriages Unless otherwise indicated, the names of patients and some details about this reproductive immunology treatment case study have been changed to protect their privacy. “Hi,” the woman’s cheerful voice answered. “You have reached the Copelands, John, Dianne, Peter, Sam and Heather. We’re not home right now, but if you’ll leave a… Read more »

The RIA Story: How We Started Our Reproductive Immunology Lab

In the late 1980s, three physicians, Dr. William L. Matzner, Dr. Penny J. Chong, and Dr. Wendell T. W. Ching, came together to begin one of the first reproductive immunology labs in the United States. Since that time they have researched, collaborated with other physicians, and successfully diagnosed and treated hundreds of couples unable to carry a pregnancy to term… Read more »

Recurrent Miscarriage Treatment after Fourth Miscarriage: Holly and Mike

Treatment for Recurrent Miscarriage Case Study – HOLLY  AND MIKE: Holly and Mike first came to see us after Holly had her fourth miscarriage. The recurrent miscarriage problem had all of her OB/GYNs and other consult doctors scratching their heads as to the cause. The doctors had done tests for immunological and other causes, but did not have a solution.  She even consulted with… Read more »

DQ Alpha Genotyping: An Important Test for Couples Experiencing Recurrent Miscarriages

DQ Alpha Genotyping uncovers important information for women who have experienced miscarriage and couples who have experienced one normal delivery and then recurrent miscarriages. In this blog post we explain the test and why it’s important. Your Human Lymphocyte Antigen (HLA) system is part of what determines your unique immune system and what your immune system recognizes as foreign. The… Read more »

How to Inject Heparin or Lovenox Subcutaneously

When you are undergoing reproductive immunology and other treatments, the treatment may call for injecting Heparin (or Lovenox) subcutaneously (under the skin). At RIA, we provide the following instructions to help you understand how to inject Heparin. Many of our patients have never injected themselves with a needle! You might be a little anxious about the procedure, but after a… Read more »

Is IVIG or Intralipid Treatment Covered by My Health Insurance?

Many Reproductive Immunology Associates patients ask whether IVIG or Intralipid treatments for recurrent miscarriage caused by problems with the immune system can be covered by their health insurance. While we have no control over how health insurance companies make decisions about your coverage, we can provide as much information as possible as well as IVIG (Intravenous Immunoglobulin) or Intralipid options… Read more »

5 Reasons for Single and Recurrent Miscarriages

One in two hundred couples will experience two or more consecutive miscarriages. There are five reasons for miscarriage which have been identified: Infection Abnormal anatomy Low progesterone levels Abnormal chromosomes Immune problems Sometimes the cause of a miscarriage is unknown, and sometimes there are multiple reasons a woman miscarries. There are solutions for miscarriage, depending on the reason(s) it happened…. Read more »

What to Say (and Do) When Someone You Know Experiences a Miscarriage

Over the years many of our patients have shared some very painful stories about the ignorant and hurtful things people say when they learn about a miscarriage the patient has had. “It’s probably for the best.” “Be thankful. This was nature’s way of telling you the baby would have been deformed.” “You were probably too active.” “It’s God’s will.” “Oh,… Read more »