What is Miscarriage?
Miscarriage is the term used when a pregnancy ends on its own before the 20th week of gestation. It’s also known as a spontaneous abortion. It’s estimated that 10 to 20 percent of known pregnancies end in miscarriage. When the loss of a pregnancy occurs before the 20th week, it’s usually termed a miscarriage. After the 20th week, it’s usually referred to as a stillbirth.
What Causes Miscarriage?
The cause of most miscarriages isn’t known. Some miscarriages are caused by chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus. However, most miscarriages are due to problems with the placenta. The placenta is the organ that nourishes the fetus. If the placenta isn’t healthy, the fetus won’t receive the nutrients it needs to survive. Other possible causes of miscarriage include infection, uterine abnormalities, and hormonal problems.
What Are the After Effects of a Miscarriage?
The experience of miscarriage can be physically and emotionally difficult. Some women experience physical after-effects of a miscarriage, such as cramping, heavy bleeding, and pain. These symptoms can last for several days. Emotional distress is common. The grief that comes with the loss of a pregnancy can be intense. Many women feel a sense of guilt and sadness. Other women may feel anger, anxiety, or depression.
Grieving the Loss
Grief is a normal response to the loss of a pregnancy. It’s important to give yourself time to grieve. It’s important to talk to someone about your feelings. If you’re struggling with grief and depression, it’s important to seek professional help. You may also find it helpful to talk to other women who have gone through a similar experience.
Managing Physical Symptoms
If you’ve had a miscarriage, it’s important to take care of your physical health. If you’re experiencing heavy bleeding or cramping, it’s important to seek medical attention. Your doctor can also advise you on when it’s safe to resume sexual activity. It’s also important to follow your doctor’s advice regarding contraception.
Getting Support
It’s important to seek support after a miscarriage. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, reach out to family and friends. If your employer offers bereavement leave, take advantage of it. If you’re having difficulty coping with the loss, seek professional counseling. There are also online communities for women who have experienced miscarriage.
When to Try Again
If you’ve had a miscarriage, it’s important to discuss the timing of a future pregnancy with your doctor. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that couples wait at least three months before attempting to conceive again. This gives your body time to heal and recover. It’s also important to discuss any medical conditions you have that could affect a future pregnancy.
Risks of Future Miscarriages
If you’ve had a miscarriage, you may be concerned about the risk of having another one. Generally, the risk of a second miscarriage is the same as the risk of a first miscarriage. However, if you’ve had two or more consecutive miscarriages, you may be at an increased risk of having a third. If you’ve had three or more miscarriages in a row, your doctor may recommend genetic testing.
Conclusion
Miscarriage is a common and often devastating experience. It’s important to give yourself time to grieve. It’s also important to take care of your physical health. If you’re struggling with grief and depression, it’s important to seek professional help. Finally, if you’re considering a future pregnancy, it’s important to discuss any risks with your doctor.