Understanding Miscarriage
Since miscarriages are seldomly spoken of, most women don't know what to expect if it ever happens to them.
As it is, miscarriage is devastating & inevitably effects your mental health but, maybe if we talk about it & educate women on what to expect physically then we can at least reduce some of the fear & anxiety surrounding it.
(*I am NOT a doctor, this is just what I've learned after my own losses.)
A miscarriage is "the spontaneous loss of a woman's pregnancy before the 20th week & it's the most common type pregnancy loss".
Miscarriages seem to happen in 3 different ways:
A women's body will miscarry on its own unless they have a "missed miscarriage" in which case they need a pill - Cytotec (Misoprostol) to help induce the process or
Depending on how far a long the pregnancy is the OBGYN might recommend that a D&C (Dilation & Curettage) is the best option.
If you are miscarrying knowing this can help prepare you so that you're less scared:
A miscarriage is NOT necessarily just a heavy period. The cramping can be extremely painful & you might see the sac. Heavy bleeding is normal but ALWAYS call your Dr if something doesn't feel right.
Bleeding can last from a couple days to a few weeks.
It can take weeks for your HCG levels to return to zero & your body will be working to balance its hormones so you might feel hormonal & moody during this time. (A blood test is the best way to monitor this.)
Prep List:
Pain medication
Pedialyte or something similar to keep you hydrated
Heating pads
Large pads or adult diapers
Baby wipes
Support system
Miscarriage can be traumatic. Seek therapy (if necessary), you deserve to have help.
It's normal to experience anxiety & depression after this type of loss. Regardless of how far along you were, you have every right to grieve!
Your feelings (no matter what they are) are valid.
