Pregnancy loss is a very dreadful experience. It drains the energy in a woman physically. It also leaves behind emotional trauma in a woman. It can happen to any woman, because pregnancy loss is a very common occurrence. Yet, a woman who has greater awareness is able to cope with the loss better than the one who is ignorant. Here, Dr. Ramya Jayaram, Post Doctoral Fellow in Endogynecology & Reproductive Medicine, Consultant (Reproductive Medicine) Women Center by Motherhood answers some of the most frequently asked questions about miscarriage.
Is there anything a woman can do to prevent pregnancy loss?
The answer, unfortunately is no because most of the time a woman cannot do anything to prevent a miscarriage. However, getting preconception and prenatal care before becoming pregnant and during pregnancy can help prevent some complications before they occur.
After a pregnancy loss how long a woman should wait to try again for another baby?
It would be ideal and safe for a woman to conceive after one normal menstrual cycle has occurred subsequent to pregnancy loss. The best option, however, would be to wait until she is physically and emotionally ready to become pregnant again and until any tests recommended by a healthcare provider to ascertain the cause of miscarriage are carried out.
Does a woman who has lost a pregnancy have a higher risk of another pregnancy loss?
Miscarriage is typically a one-time occurrence. But, about 1 percent women experience more than one miscarriage in a row or repeated miscarriages. In some cases, an underlying problem causes repeated miscarriages. But, it would be best to approach a healthcare provider who would be able to suggest a series of tests to determine and treat if possible the cause of repeated miscarriages.
What do you mean by a missed miscarriage? Why does it happen?
A missed miscarriage is a case where the baby has died or failed to develop but the woman’s body has not actually miscarried it. Though the scan picture will show pregnancy sac with a baby inside, it looks smaller than it should be at this stage and has no heartbeat.
After a miscarriage, how long would it take to get a normal period?
It takes about four to six weeks in most cases after the loss. This, however, can vary from individual to individual. The first period after the pregnancy loss can be heavier and last longer than the usual period. However, if you don’t get the period even after 6 weeks, it would be worth doing a pregnancy test. If result shows positive but you know you don’t have a chance of getting pregnant again, then, it would be better to consult your gynaecologist.
I’m bleeding/spotting. Am I miscarrying?
There is a chance, but heavy bleeding should not always mean miscarriage. An ultrasound might give you more details but it might not give a full picture but not until 7 weeks. Even then it might give you a full picture. It would be better to consult your gynaecologist, especially, if you have had an ectopic pregnancy in the past, have sharp one-sided pain or pain in your shoulders or if you feel very faint and dizzy. For appointments and details call 0422 420 1000 or visit Womens Center by Motherhood Hospital, 146 B, Mettupalayam Road, Coimbatore – 641043
—Dr. Ramya Jayaram, Womens Center by Motherhood.
Dr Ramya Jayaram Clears Doubts About Miscarriage
