Miscarriage is the spontaneous loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week. About 10 to 20 percent of known pregnancies end in miscarriage. Most miscarriages occur because the fetus isn't developing as expected. About 50 percent of miscarriages are associated with extra or missing chromosomes. In a few cases, a mother's health condition (e.g diabetes or uterine conditions) might lead to miscarriage . Miscarriage is a traumatic loss, not only of the pregnancy. Women may torment themselves with the feelings of loss, anxiety, sadness, guilt and blaming herself. Such feelings can be particularly difficult for women who were ambivalent about the pregnancy to begin with.

Getting pregnant again after a miscarriage

A woman can ovulate and become pregnant as soon as two weeks after a miscarriage. Scientists found that the best outcomes of pregnancy were actually obtained if women got pregnant within three months of having a miscarriage. 

However, there are things to consider before trying to get pregnant again. Talking to your gynecologist or midwife before you conceive is an important first step in having a healthy pregnancy

For example, after the curettage procedure, it is necessary to discuss the timing of your next pregnancy with your doctor. Some women who miscarry develop an infection or any other medical issues needed to be well treated.  

Under some circumstances, ask your doctor about performing tests to figure out an underlying cause and it’s treatment. If you've had a miscarriage, your healthcare provider will likely advise that you wait a short period before having sex again. In most cases, it is safe to resume having sex once your miscarriage-related bleeding has stopped (usually one to two weeks)

Healthcare professionals recommend to wait for some times so the mother can recover both emotionally and physically so that the risk of repeated miscarriages can be minimized. It takes time for the uterus and endometrial lining to become healthy and strong again. 

Risk Of Recurrent Miscarriage

There are many possible reasons why someone might experience repeated miscarriages. But it turns out that 85% of couples get a successful pregnancy after a miscarriage and 75% in those who have miscarried 2-3x.

When to go to a gynecologist

A woman has a higher risk of miscarriage if they:

• Are over age 35
• Have certain diseases, such as diabetes or thyroid problems
• Have had three or more miscarriages
• Have fertility problems

Once you feel emotionally and physically ready for pregnancy after miscarriage, ask your doctor for guidance. Sometimes, a new pregnancy cannot replace the sense of loss during a miscarriage. 

To prevent recurrent miscarriages, there are a few things you can do :

     * Perform pre-pregnancy check-ups and have regular check-ups during pregnancy

     * Control weight, blood sugar, blood pressure and other health conditions that may affect pregnancy

     * Balanced Diet with nutritious foods

     * Sports

     * The husband can play an active role by quitting smoking and with his wife adopting a healthy lifestyle.

Author: Dr. Clarinda Hermanto (Medical Consultant of PRAMITA Clinic Lab Branch Jl. Bambang Sugeng No. The A2)