Research-backed
Image: Shutterstock
Trying to have a baby is a big step in any relationship. It means that you’re ready for the next phase of your life — parenthood, and that can be terrifying as well as exciting. After trying for almost a year (like most couples do), when you hear the news of your pregnancy, you are probably filled with tears of joy and extreme gratitude. You begin to take care of yourself and put all that knowledge you’ve gathered about pregnancy into good use. You eat healthy meals, get adequate rest and visit your doctor’s appointments regularly. It’s a new and exciting time for you, and it’s all good until it’s not.
For any couple, the news of a miscarriage can be devastating. It might come as a shock to you and can be extremely disheartening. Miscarriages usually occur in the first trimester of pregnancy and can happen due to several reasons — known and unknown. Most often, miscarriages occur due to chromosomal abnormalities or other external factors (1). However, women tend to blame themselves and feel guilty when it happens. It might even lead you to hesitate to try for another pregnancy.
Image: Shutterstock
According to research, around 87% of women have normal pregnancies and childbirth after having a miscarriage. The unfortunate occurrence does not always indicate fertility problems. Some researchers also say that miscarriages occur when the pregnancy is not normal and could be an autoimmune response (2). That being said, we understand how hard it might be for you to deal with the loss of a little one. You might feel like you’re filled with despair, but we are here to tell you not to give up. Here are a few tips to help you cope with your crushing loss:
- Accept What Happened
Image: Shutterstock
It might be extremely difficult to accept that you’ve lost your baby. You probably started dreaming about holding your little one in your arms ever since you heard the news of your pregnancy. But before you even got that chance, you had a miscarriage, which is not a small loss. However, you need to accept what happened and try to move on. Take your time and don’t rush the process but take small steps to get better, physically and mentally.
- Honor The Loss
Image: Shutterstock
Even if you think you’ve dealt with the loss completely, there may be days or moments that remind you of the little angel you lost. Maybe you thought of a name for your baby, and it hurts you every time you hear the name. Don’t hesitate to take some time off and honor the loss. Healing doesn’t happen overnight, and it’s okay to take your time with it.
- Decide The Next Steps On Your Own
Image: Shutterstock
You might hear several people giving you unsolicited advice on what to do next. They are probably doing it with the best intentions, but you don’t have to feel pressured about the next steps. Discuss it with your partner and doctor and choose what’s best for you.
- Seek Professional Help
Image: Shutterstock
If you’re having trouble getting over the miscarriage, there is absolutely no shame in seeking professional help. Losing your unborn baby is big, and it probably shattered your hopes and dreams. Such a thing is not easy to overcome, so don’t dismiss your feelings. Consulting a mental health professional might make it easier for you to cope with the loss.
- Next Time Will Be Different
Image: Shutterstock
It’s natural to get overworked and stressed when you conceive again because you are reminded of your previous experience. However, remember that it’ll be different the next time and believe it. Don’t let the loss of your past rob you from enjoying the present. You might take extra precautions this time around, and that’s okay, but remember not to get too nervous or worried.
Going through a miscarriage is a traumatic event. But with the right support system to help you cope with it, you and your partner will be ready to give pregnancy another shot. So don’t hesitate to start trying as soon as you feel ready. Your hopes and dreams are surely achievable and just around the corner. How did you deal with the loss of an unborn child? If you are comfortable, please share your story with us in the comments below.
