Experiencing a miscarriage can be a traumatic, stressful event. If you’ve experienced a miscarriage, you are not alone. According to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), about 15 to 20 percent of pregnancies end in miscarriage. Many times, the cause of a miscarriage remains unknown. If you have suffered a miscarriage, you may be feeling stress and concern over becoming pregnant again. Taking steps to encourage the health of your baby and yourself may help ease your mind during subsequent pregnancies.
Step 1
Use some form of birth control until you are sure that you are ready for another pregnancy. Because you may ovulate as early as two weeks after your miscarriage, you may become pregnant before you feel recovered and emotionally ready to conceive.
Step 2
Make an appointment with your doctor. Ask him to rule out any health conditions that may have contributed to your miscarriage and to give you a clean bill of health before conceiving again. If you experience prolonged feelings of sadness or anger after your miscarriage, speak with a therapist to help resolve these issues before attempting another pregnancy. Your therapist can also help you deal with your fears concerning another pregnancy.
Step 3
Eat a nutritious, well-balanced diet to eliminate the possibility of nutritional deficiencies. Maintain a healthy weight by eating low-fat foods and reducing your intake of foods that contain large amounts of sugar. Choose fresh vegetables and fruits to snack on throughout the day. Consume nutritious foods, including whole grains, legumes, low-fat dairy products and lean meats.
Step 4
Focus on fitness. Increase your level of activity prior to becoming pregnant again. Miscarriage Support, a non-profit support group for women who experience miscarriages, suggests walking, swimming and yoga. Exercising before pregnancy can help you relax and unwind, while preparing your body for the physical stress of carrying a baby for nine months.
Step 5
Take a multivitamin that contains folic acid. Although you may get plenty of nutrients through your healthy food choices, an additional supplement may ensure adequate levels of vitamins and minerals prior to becoming pregnant. Miscarriage Support recommends taking a vitamin that contains at least 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid.
Step 6
Practice relaxation techniques. Many women enjoy their pregnancies with few worries or concerns, but women who have miscarried may experience feelings of anxiety and worry during the period before attempting another pregnancy. Learn to relax by choosing activities that take your mind off your problems. Consider joining a meditation class or taking part in a relaxation seminar. Set aside a certain amount of time each day to write down your feelings, practice deep breathing or soak in a warm bath.
Photo Credit
- pregnant image by AGphotographer from Fotolia.com
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