Pregnancy After Miscarriage

Women are often understandably anxious about their next pregnancy after miscarriage. 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, childcare 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.

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