How to Become Pregnant after Miscarriage

Trying to have a baby after a miscarriage is likely to be very emotionally difficult for couples. However, the loss of a pregnancy is more common than most people think. According to the Miscarriage Association, around one in four pregnancies ends in miscarriage. Feelings of sadness, anger, guilt and fear of experiencing another miscarriage often accompany this devastating event. Fortunately, having several miscarriages in a row is rare and the majority of women will have a healthy pregnancy.

When can I start trying to conceive again after a pregnancy loss?

There is no ideal time to start trying to have a baby again after a miscarriage, whether this is via natural conception or through a fertility treatment such as artificial insemination or IVF. Couples might be able to attempt another pregnancy as soon as the female partner has fully recovered. It’s important to wait for the body to strengthen first. Trying too early, if the uterus is not yet ready to support a pregnancy, can increase the risk of miscarriage.

You and your partner also need to be emotionally prepared before trying again. It’s generally recommended to make another attempt after at least one or two menstruation cycles have passed. Periods usually return 4 to 6 weeks after the miscarriage. Some doctors, however, advise waiting between 6 months and a year. It all depends on those concerned. Listen to your emotions and seek advice to ensure that you are both physically and emotionally able to undergo another pregnancy.

What can I do to prevent another miscarriage?

The majority of women who experience a pregnancy loss will not suffer a second. Only 1% have three of more miscarriages in a row. If you have experienced two losses or more, you should seek help and maybe take some blood and chromosomal tests to understand what’s going on. Your doctor may also look for any uterine problems. A medical treatment might be suggested.

Chances of miscarriage also increase after the age of 35 and/or when you have fertility problems. If this is your case, you should also be more cautious and consult a doctor.

There are things you can do to reduce the risks. You should, for instance, quit smoking, avoid alcohol and drugs, as well as doing your best to maintain a balanced diet and a healthy weight. You can also take prenatal vitamins or supplements to help you to have a successful pregnancy. However, most miscarriages can’t be prevented and aren’t related to anything the mum-to-be has done.

How can I cope with a pregnancy loss?

Expectant mothers who experience a miscarriage often worry that they will have another one. Don’t worry too much though, as most women have a healthy second pregnancy.

Nonetheless, when you successfully become pregnant again following a loss, your emotions can be like a rollercoaster. A mum-to-be can experience a variety of feelings, such as anxiety, guilt or sadness, before feeling the joy of expecting a baby—and then worrying again. Others feel strangely detached from their new pregnancy because of what happened to them previously. Everyone reacts differently, but the majority of women need some time to recover.

After a miscarriage, you need to take care of yourself. It is not possible to know exactly when you will feel better, however, there are methods to help you cope. Some women find relaxation and meditation useful. Psychological counseling can also offer significant support to aid your recovery.

Where can I find support and advice?

It’s important to seek assistance after a miscarriage. Talking regularly to your doctor can help you. If you are pregnant again, medical advice and careful monitoring of your pregnancy can reassure you that your baby is fine. Asking a friend or your partner to accompany you to appointments can also be a great help.

Hospitals and charity groups offer counseling to couples who experienced a loss of pregnancy.

When should I tell my family that I am pregnant again?

After experiencing a miscarriage, couples often prefer to keep the pregnancy secret during the first trimester, or at least until they have passed the point at which they suffered a pregnancy loss the last time. This is usually because they are concerned about it happening again.

When to announce your pregnancy is a very personal decision and can change from individual to individual. You can tell everyone the good news straight away or wait for three months. It’s entirely up to you.

However, keeping this important news to yourself can cause you to feel lonely and isolated. You need to surround yourself with people who can support you. If you prefer to remain discreet, you don’t have to tell everyone, but it’s best to have at least one or two confidants.