How to Recover from a Miscarriage
It is quite devastating to see a positive pregnancy test result only to miscarry the baby you were so ecstatic about. In addition to the physical symptoms of losing a pregnancy, you'll also feel a range of emotions in the days and weeks that follow. Taking care of yourself is the best way to recover from a miscarriage, but also understand that every women recovers at her own pace and what works for another woman might not work for you.
Instructions
Take time to grieve, the American Pregnancy Association recommends. You might experience a range of emotions including sadness, disbelief and anger, and you need to let yourself work through these emotions. Ask for a few days off from work or reach out to your partner or a family member who can help make it possible for you to have a few days to yourself. Ask for support. Talk to other women who have experienced a miscarriage, which can help you make sense of your feelings and understand that you're not alone in your grief. You might also talk to a pastor, priest or counselor, who will listen to you, pray with you or give you other ways to work through your sadness. Avoid situations that will make your loss harder to bear. You might choose to skip baby showers or birthday parties for children in your life. Attending these types of gatherings are bound to be difficult for you and skipping them altogether is often one step that's necessary during the healing process. Take care of yourself physically. After a miscarriage, you'll bleed and experience cramping for several days or weeks, according to the American Pregnancy Association. Use sanitary pads rather than tampons to help prevent infection and ask your doctor about using over-the-counter pain relievers to help you deal with the pain associated with cramps. Skip swimming pools, hot tubs, baths and don't douche after a miscarriage. Pass on sexual intercourse until your doctor says it's safe, too. Following these guidelines cuts down on your risk of infection, according to the American Pregnancy Association. If your doctor prescribes an antibiotic, take the entire course of medication even if you start to feel better. Wait to resume your normal physical activities until your doctor gives you approval. While vigorous activity can help distract you and help you cope, taking time to care for yourself and letting your body heal is key to both your mental and your physical health. Honor your baby. According to the American Pregnancy Association, healing doesn't mean forgetting, but doing something to remember your baby can go a long way toward helping you feel better. The American Pregnancy Association recommends things like planting a tree in your baby's honor, purchasing a piece of jewelry with a birthstone that aligns with the month you lost your baby or making a donation to a favorite charity in honor of your baby.