Trying to reconcile one’s emotions after having a miscarriage can be hard. Finding ways to manage and cope is extremely difficult after the loss of a child. Although it might seem impossible to experience the emotions that a miscarriage leaves behind, physical and mental recovery is a slow and necessary process. How do we move forward after such an event? There is no easy answer, but there are tools available to help with healing, reconciliation, and reflection.
Time for Reflection
Moving forward from a traumatic event often starts with processing the trauma. Healing is a slow process but begins with careful reflection. Recognizing the pain of traumatic events can allow us to confront that pain. The healing journey is a long and difficult one that can take many different forms. Reflecting on the pain of what has happened allows us to unravel what has happened and search for healing.
Speaking to a Professional
Although miscarriages are much more common than most people are aware of, the psychological effects have undergone very little research. Some psychologists hypothesize that the early emotional changes in pregnancy result in grief specific to miscarriages. The impact on mental health after a miscarriage can have long-lasting effects, with 1 in 6 women experiencing Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) after. Even after the birth of a healthy child, many women have reported experiencing depression and anxiety. Speaking with a licensed professional can be an important tool in the recovery process. Professionals can evaluate your grief and provide treatment options to help work through the pain.
Embrace Community
Whether it is a simple coffee date with a friend or a women’s support group, community can have an uplifting effect during hard times. Finding a support group specific to miscarriages can be a helpful step in the healing journey. Finding solidarity in shared trauma and leaning on others can be an important tool in the recovery process.
Be Accepting of Self-Care
Heavy bleeding, severe pain in your abdomen, and shock are just a few physical symptoms the body goes through during a miscarriage. Finding grace for the trauma your body and mind has gone through can be difficult but it is essential to prioritize these things while you heal. Consider small acts of self-care like taking a hot bath, exercising, meditation, or hiking, and give yourself the time to do it.
Miscarriages are more common than most know, but no one can measure the amount of pain that is experienced when one occurs. Before, during, and after pregnancy, it is important to consult a physician about your health and the health of your baby. Undergoing carrier screening, and engaging in healthy lifestyle practices can help your physical and mental health during all of these phases. If you experience a miscarriage, reach out to professionals who can help you through the physical and mental pain you are experiencing. No two pregnancies are alike, and taking care of yourself is the most important thing you can do.
Sources:
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.3109/00048679609076072
https://www.verywellfamily.com/making-sense-of-miscarriage-statistics-2371721
Throughout the year, our writers feature fresh, in-depth, and relevant information for our audience of 40,000+ healthcare leaders and professionals. As a healthcare business publication, we cover and cherish our relationship with the entire health care industry including administrators, nurses, physicians, physical therapists, pharmacists, and more. We cover a broad spectrum from hospitals to medical offices to outpatient services to eye surgery centers to university settings. We focus on rehabilitation, nursing homes, home care, hospice as well as men’s health, women’s heath, and pediatrics.
