Pregnancy after Miscarriage

Miscarriage is a devastating but sadly common phenomenon. It's estimated that about 25 percent of pregnancies end in miscarriage. Others put the estimate higher, as many miscarriages occur before the woman knows she is even pregnant. Early miscarriage - miscarriage that occurs before 12 weeks of pregnancy, sometimes before the woman even knows she is pregnant - is especially common.

Fortunately, a miscarriage is not necessarily a sign that you are unable to have a successful pregnancy. Most miscarriages occur as a result of a chromosomal defect in the fetus, not because of infertility in the woman or her partner.

How Long Should You Wait Before Trying to Get Pregnant Again?

While a miscarriage will not affect your future fertility, it is recommended that women wait until at least one menstrual period before again attempting pregnancy after a miscarriage. This period lets the woman recover, both physically and emotionally. However, if a woman experiences recurrent pregnancy loss - three or more consecutive miscarriages - she and her partner should be evaluated for male fertility problems or female factor infertility and might want to look into IVIg fertility treatments, a treatment that can correct the conditions that make a woman's body repeatedly miscarry embryos.

Successfully Conceiving after a Miscarriage

Since most miscarriages aren't a sign of fertility problems, conception after a miscarriage usually doesn't pose any physical challenges. However, a woman may experience trepidation, fear, and sadness upon conceiving after a miscarriage. Explain your emotions to your friends, family, and partner - this may help you to feel more optimistic about your pregnancy. Visit your doctor regularly, insist that your pregnancy be carefully monitored, and stay healthy by exercising regularly, eating well, managing stress, maintaining a healthy weight, taking folic acid daily, and avoiding smoking and potentially harmful drugs.

Find a Fertility Specialist in Your City

Whether you have experienced recurrent pregnancy loss or simply have questions about getting pregnant or conceiving after suffering an early miscarriage, DocShop provides a comprehensive online directory of caring fertility specialists that can help you achieve a successful pregnancy after miscarriage. Explore our online directory to find a fertility specialist in your area.