It isn't what you did

Incompetent cervix also leads to miscarriage but this usually happens later in the pregnancy and can often be treated.  Miscarriages don't happen because of extreme emotions, physical activities including sex, or even due to normal falls.  Some fertilised eggs don't implant properly, or they implant in the wrong place, as in a tubal pregnancy. 

During miscarriage the fetus or pregnancy material can pass out of the body on its own, be reabsorbed by the body, or removed with a D & C.  It's important to take care of yourself both physically and emotionally after a miscarriage so that you recover to optimum health.

One of the first things you need to do in the aftermath of a miscarriage is understand that you didn't cause it.  You may feel guilt over the outcome and revisit with anxiety all the things you did and didn't do, but miscarriages happen to even the healthiest of women.  You should expect sadness or grief, but the extent of these emotions is entirely individual.  Some women are pragmatic, accept the loss, and move along to try again.  Others may feel the loss more acutely and will take far longer to deal with the emotional pain.

After a miscarriage there may be some additional cramping and pain, and there will be blood loss for several days.  If any of this becomes pronounced, or if the bleeding turns darker, scantier, tapers off, and then goes bright red again, call your doctor.  It is imperative to pay attention for signs of infection, usually caused by pregnancy material that has not properly re-absorbed or left the body.  If your doctor has given you antibiotics, take them as directed for the duration he has prescribed. 

In the recovery period, don't use tampons for the blood flow.  Use pads instead.  Don't take a bath (shower instead), enter a swimming pool or hot tub, or douche.  You will render yourself far more susceptible to infections if you do.  Don't have vaginal sex during this time either.  You want to heal without encouraging infections.  

Don't be afraid to try for a baby again.  The vast majority of women who have miscarried go on to have successful pregnancies.  Allow for a full menstrual cycle before trying again, or wait even longer if you are having a hard time healing emotionally.  Be patient with yourself.  Remember that your partner has also experienced a loss, and it will take both of you to decide together when to try for another pregnancy.

Article by Rachel Goodchild

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