The joys of finding out you are pregnant are instantly dashed when a miscarriage occurs. After miscarriage, many women have a long list of questions about physical health, mental health and parenthood. Understanding how the body works and what changes happen after miscarriage is often enough to put your mind at ease.

What happens physically after miscarriage?

During pregnancy various hormones, including estrogen, progesterone and human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) levels rise. After miscarriage, these hormones slowly return to pre-pregnancy levels. It could take four to six weeks for hormone levels to return to normal.

Do I need physical care after miscarriage?

You should make an appointment with your obstetrician after miscarriage for a physical examination. If the doctor determines the miscarriage was complete, there may be no further testing or care required. If the miscarriage was incomplete, the obstetrician will likely suggest a surgical procedure to remove the remaining fetal tissue.

What types of medical tests may be ordered after miscarriage?

Blood work, genetic testing, genetic counseling, ultrasound and x-rays are the most common medical tests.

Should I seek mental support after miscarriage?

The mental effects of a miscarriage are unique to each situation. Mental support is available through support groups, online support forums and family. Your obstetrician may be able to help you find a therapist for additional grief support.

Can I get pregnant after miscarriage?

Having a miscarriage does not prevent future pregnancies for most women. The conditions surrounding the miscarriage will be unique to each woman and future pregnancies should be discussed with your obstetrician. While it does not take a long time to recover physically from a miscarriage, the mental impact may last longer. Trying for a baby again is a personal decision most women choose not to rush.

When is it safe to conceive after miscarriage?

The female body typically takes four to six weeks to recover from a miscarriage. Your normal menstrual cycle may return in the same pattern as before you became pregnant or it could change completely. It is typically considered safe to try again after your next regular menstrual cycle, but your obstetrician may have different suggestions.

The body and mind undergo plenty of changes after miscarriage. It is sometimes comforting for women to know that miscarriage is not uncommon. Many women suffer miscarriage in the first trimester of pregnancy due to various factors associated with implantation and other physical body changes. The emotional aspect of life after miscarriage is often more difficult than physical recovery.