Pregnancy After a Miscarriage

Women who have miscarried are often understandably anxious about their next pregnancy. If you’ve experienced a miscarriage in a previous pregnancy, you may need time to acknowledge your grief, remember the child you have lost and deal with your emotions. The following suggestions may help:

Accept some anxiety. This is a normal feeling. However, if anxiety cripples or prevents you from coping with daily life, consider seeking the help of a therapist who is experienced in helping those who have lost a child.

Ask for help. If you’re feeling stressed, seek help with meals, housework, child care or your job.

Take good care of yourself physically. Eat well, get massages, exercise regularly or practice relaxation or visualization techniques.

Express your feelings. Don’t wait until you become overwhelmed. Talk to your partner. Write down your feelings.

Try not to worry about “bonding” with the baby during your pregnancy. When you’re ready to attach emotionally, you will.

Find prenatal caregivers who support your needs. If you want weekly visits just to hear a fetal heartbeat, schedule them.

Find a supportive friend, someone who will ask how you are doing and then accept whatever feelings you want to share.