Coping with Miscarriage

Miscarriage impacts each woman uniquely. It’s essential to acknowledge that there is no right or wrong way to grieve. Healing takes time, and there is no set timeline for grief. Allow yourself the space to process your emotions and understand that it’s perfectly normal to have moments of strength followed by moments of vulnerability.

One of the most challenging aspects of grief is the unpredictability of its waves. Some days, you might feel like you can go about your daily activities without being overwhelmed, while others may leave you feeling completely drained. It’s crucial to recognize that grief doesn’t follow a linear path. There are no rules, and there is no right or wrong way to feel. Each individual’s experience is unique, and your journey is entirely your own.

Miscarriage Signs:

The physical signs of miscarriage vary among individuals, from heavy bleeding with or without clots to minimal bleeding or none at all. Cramping and abdominal pain may also occur. If you suspect a pregnancy loss, whether before or after 20 weeks’ gestation, it is crucial to consult your healthcare professional.

Distinguishing between a miscarriage and a period can be challenging. If your menstrual cycle significantly deviates from your previous months, especially if accompanied by increased cramping, it may indicate a miscarriage. In such cases, avoiding tampons is advisable to reduce the risk of infection due to cervical dilation.

What To Do:

Following a suspected miscarriage, consult a doctor, obstetrician, or reproductive endocrinologist to explore available options. The best course of action depends on factors such as the type and timing of the loss. For some women passing happens on its own, while others may opt for medication or surgical procedures like D&C (dilation and curettage). It is essential to discuss these options with your healthcare provider.

Processing Grief:

Taking control of your emotions during this challenging time can be a significant step towards healing. While it may seem daunting, acknowledging your feelings and finding healthy ways to express them can be transformative. Consider keeping a journal to record your thoughts and emotions. Writing can be an incredibly therapeutic way to process grief, offering you a safe, judgment-free space to articulate your feelings.

Remember, it’s okay to not have all the answers or to fully understand what you’re feeling. Grief can be complex and confusing, and it’s perfectly normal to have moments when you don’t know how to articulate your pain.

Emotional Support:

Seeking professional support can be immensely helpful. A therapist or counselor with experience in grief and pregnancy loss can provide you with valuable guidance and tools to cope with your emotions. Speaking with someone who specializes in miscarriage can be particularly comforting, as they can offer insight and understanding that others may not have. If you are struggling, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7. Just call 988.

You Are Not Alone:

If you are a mother who has recently experienced a miscarriage, please know that you are not alone in your pain. Many women have walked this path before you, and many will follow. While the grief of a miscarriage can be isolating, there is a community of understanding and compassionate individuals who are here to support you. Support groups, social media communities, and hashtags like #ihadamiscarriage offer valuable resources.

Know that you are strong, even in your vulnerability. You are resilient, even in your pain. And you are not defined by this loss. Your journey is one of courage and endurance, and though the road may be difficult, there is hope on the horizon.

Grief is painful, but it is also a testament to the depth of your love and the strength of your spirit. You will heal, and you will find a way to move forward, one step at a time.

About the Author

Elizabeth King, ICF

Bereavement Doula