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Hope after miscarriage: Coping with pregnancy loss

Coping with pregnancy lossLosing a pregnancy is a traumatizing experience, and you may be surprised by the range of emotions you feel, especially if it occurs very early in your pregnancy. The term “pregnancy loss” refers to any loss of your unborn baby. A pregnancy loss in the first 20 weeks is a miscarriage; after 20 weeks, it’s a stillbirth. Miscarriages are fairly common, occurring in 10% to 20% or more of pregnancies, while stillbirths only happen about 1% of the time. Every loss is painful, and our San Antonio OBGYNs are here to help you cope.

Your emotions after a miscarriage

You will probably physically recover from your pregnancy loss in about a month or two, but the emotional recovery can take longer. You may experience a wide range of emotions, from depression and sadness to anger, shame, guilt or denial. Your emotional symptoms can cause physical problems, such as difficulty sleeping or concentrating, loss of appetite, fatigue, relationship issues or even thoughts of self-harm. Paying attention to your emotions is vital for your health.

Tips from our San Antonio OBGYNs for coping with your pregnancy loss

There is no better time in your life for self-love and self-care than after a miscarriage. You need support and help, and our team can help you find what you need. Here are some helpful tips about coping with your loss.

  • Acknowledge your loss. No matter how early your pregnancy ends, it is still a loss. It’s a loss of the hopes and dreams you have for your baby. Let yourself feel your emotions, and if someone doesn’t acknowledge your loss, seek out people who will.
  • Don’t play the blame or shame game. We all do it. We tend to blame ourselves or look at our behavior to find a reason for our loss. If you are blaming yourself, talk to our physicians or a professional about your feelings, so they don’t become overwhelming.
  • Do things that bring you joy. After you take a few days to rest and recover, get out and do things that make you happy. Do something special to treat yourself. Get a massage or a pedicure – anything that makes you feel pampered.
  • Get support. This is the most important tip! Seek out caring friends and family. A support group such as Share Pregnancy & Infant Loss Support (nationalshare.org) can help. Don’t hesitate to seek professional counseling if your emotional health is suffering.

Our San Antonio OBGYNs are here for to provide you with the care and resources you need after a pregnancy loss. Contact us for an appointment.