An ultrasound can be used to detect a miscarriage. You have several choices about how you wish to proceed medically. The right choice depends heavily on your own personal preference and your stage of pregnancy. [2] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source You can let the miscarriage happen naturally if there are no signs of infection. This takes between 1-4 weeks, but the process can be emotionally difficult. You can also take medicine that speed the miscarriage. This might minimize side effects like nausea and diarrhea, and it usually works within 24 hours. [3] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source A surgical procedure may be necessary if there is heavy bleeding or infection. There’s a small risk of complications, but these are very rare. [4] X Research source
Mild to severe back pain Weight loss White-pink mucus Brown or bright red discharge Always see a doctor if side effects get worse. You want to make sure any infections or complications are dealt with quickly.
If you are going through 2 or more maxipads in 2 hours, you may have heavy bleeding. Get medical help as soon as possible.
You’ll probably be prescribed a medication to prevent hemorrhaging, especially if you were further into your pregnancy, when the risk of excessive bleeding is higher. [8] X Research source Your doctor may also prescribe antibiotics to prevent an infection. Take these as directed, and avoid drinking alcohol or other activities that would make the drugs less effective. [9] X Research source If you have Rh negative blood, your doctor may prescribe a drug called Rh(D) immune globulin (RhoGam). This will protect future fetuses that may be Rh positive.
For the first two weeks after your miscarriage, refrain from sex and do not put anything, such as a douche or tampon, in your vagina. [10] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source Talk to your doctor about when to return to normal activity and any precautions you should take. [11] X Research source Recovery generally takes from a few hours to a few days. Your period should return within 4 to 6 weeks. [12] X Trustworthy Source March of Dimes Nonprofit organization devoted to improving the lives of mothers and babies. Go to source You can use any type of birth control immediately following a miscarriage. This includes intrauterine devices. Talk to your doctor for more information. [13] X Research source
Journaling your thoughts during the weeks following your miscarriage can be a healthy way to process your feelings. Remember, hormones play a role as well. The hormonal response you have to pregnancy and miscarriage increases the intensity of your emotions. It’s not uncommon to cry for prolonged periods in the wake of a miscarriage. Trouble eating and sleeping are also common after losing a baby. Try to remind yourself these feelings are temporary and, with time, you’ll feel closer to normal.
Nurses at hospitals see a lot of miscarriages. Ask your nurse to recommend resources or a local support group that may help. [15] X Research source Tell your loved ones what you need from them, whether that’s extra support or plenty of space. There is no wrong way to feel after suffering pregnancy loss. [16] X Research source There are many resources online that address pregnancy loss, like https://www. mend. org/ and https://www. infantandchildloss. org/. [17] X Research source Join a support group to meet other women and families who have experienced miscarriage. You can find a local group at http://nationalshare. org.
People may say something like, “At least you weren’t very far along,” “You can try again,” or “At least you have another child. " Unfortunately, these comments can negate the loss you’re suffering. Respond to these comments with something like, “I know you are trying to help, and I appreciate that, but those kinds of comments aren’t helpful right now. "
You can find a therapist by calling your insurance provider and asking what doctors in your area are covered by your program. You can also ask for a referral from your general practitioner of OB/GYN. If cost is an issue, many therapist and psychiatrist offer sliding scales. There are also low cost clinics in most big cities that offer free or discounted counseling.
The World Health Organization recommends waiting at least six months to try to conceive again. On the other hand, some medical experts say that if you’re otherwise healthy and feel emotionally ready, you can try to conceive as soon as your menstrual cycle resumes. [18] X Research source Be aware that pregnancy after a miscarriage can be an anxious experience. Make sure you’re ready for the emotional toll before trying to conceive again. Less than 5% of women have two consecutive miscarriages. The odds are in your favor. Knowing this can help some women manage the anxiety. [19] X Research source If you’ve had more than two miscarriages, get tested for medical problems that could cause miscarriage. If you have an underlying problem that can be diagnosed and treated, you’ll increase the likelihood of carrying a baby to term. [20] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source
Maintain a healthy lifestyle throughout pregnancy. Exercise regularly and keep your weight gain consistent with medical guidelines. Eat a healthy diet and avoid anything, like soft cheeses or raw meats, that could be damaging to the fetus. [22] X Research source Do what you can to stay as healthy as possible while pregnant. Avoid getting sick if possible. A fever of over 100 °F (38 °C) may increase your chances of miscarriage. Smoking can increase the risk of miscarriage. Quit before pregnancy or stop smoking during pregnancy. Do not drink alcohol when pregnant. Any amount of alcohol is dangerous while you are pregnant. Even if you do not miscarry, alcohol can have severe effects on the fetus. Limit caffeine consumption to one 12 ounce cup of coffee each day. [23] X Research source Take prenatal vitamins and folic acid supplements daily. [24] X Trustworthy Source American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Professional association of OB/GYNs focused on education and public outreat initiatives Go to source
