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After
Miscarriage
Miscarriages due to
random natural factors are so common that they are not
considered medically significant until you've had 3 in a row.
At that point, the problem is officially classified as
“recurrent miscarriage,” and your doctor will
recommend a complete diagnostic workup.
The investigation
will probably start with a detailed interview. Which tests
are performed will depend on your own personal and medical
history, the father's history, and how many miscarriages you
have had. You will be tested for infections of various kinds,
possibly including sexually transmitted diseases. Blood tests
may be done for hormonal problems or a malfunction in the
immune system. You and your partner may be tested for
chromosomal abnormalities and genetic diseases as well. The
lining of your uterus may be analyzed from a small sample.
The doctor may order xrays of your uterus and fallopian
tubes to look for a blockage, fibroid, or scar
tissue.
Knowing as much as
possible about why the miscarriages are happening can
increase the chances of having a normal pregnancy in the
future. It's best to postpone trying to conceive again until
your medical evaluation is complete. More than likely, you
can carry a baby to term. Unless the problem involves
autoimmune antibodies, chromosomal abnormalities, or a weak
cervix, there's a 70 to 85 percent chance of success, even
after 3 miscarriages.
Recovering
Emotionally
Allow yourselves to
grieve after losing a pregnancy. Many couples feel a renewed
sense of emptiness and loss at the time the baby would have
been born. Consider joining a selfhelp group such as
one of those listed at the end of this book. Your
obstetrician or local hospital may be able to suggest others.
Try not to blame yourself. Instead, concentrate on finding
out what went wrong—and how you can make it
right.
Some couples want
to conceive again quickly. While such a step may be
physically possible, it is psychologically unwise.
Nevertheless, sex can be resumed safely within 2 to 4 weeks
after miscarriage. A woman's body usually is prepared for
another pregnancy after 1 or 2 normal menstrual periods.
Ovulation can occur as little as 2 weeks after a
miscarriage.
Give yourselves
enough time to recover emotionally from your loss before
facing the challenges of another pregnancy. As with any major
life event, it's important to balance the need to grieve with
the need to move on. And remember, most couples who
experience a miscarriage can go on to have a healthy
baby.
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