How to Conceive After Miscarriage

If you have gone through the heartbreaking experience of a miscarriage, you probably already know that you will likely easily conceive and successfully carry off your next pregnancy. While this does not negate the importance of your loss, it does provide some consolation and hope.

But, just because your body may be ready to conceive after miscarriage, it doesn’t necessarily mean you and your partner are emotionally prepared again. Before you consider trying for another pregnancy, you must be sure you have fully coped with your loss. For some couples, this means trying again almost immediately. Others require more time to complete their grieving process. Take as much time as you need.

Physically, there are a few things you need to resolve before trying to conceive after miscarriage. The first is to be sure there is no more vaginal bleeding, which can last from a few days to two weeks. If the miscarriage occurred in the third trimester, bleeding can last as long as six weeks. You should not engage in intercourse until this has resolved.

It is also important to wait until your menstrual cycle has returned and stabilized. Allow at least one normal menstrual cycle to pass before trying again. This allows your uterus to return to normal and your endometrial lining to become rich and healthy again.

You should, of course, communicate regularly with your doctor after a miscarriage. Tell her when you are ready to start trying again. Depending on your particular situation, she may recommend that you wait a full three menstrual cycles before attempting to conceive again. If you and/or your partner are suffering from severe grief, she may also recommend that you wait longer.

It is important to recognize that your emotional state may also affect your chances of conceiving right away. This is normal. Even if you feel “ready” to try again, stress and sadness may delay conception for a while. You can help the process along by having intercourse between days 10 and 18 of your cycle, which is the best window for conception.

Time of day and position really aren’t important; what is important is that you and your partner feel connected to each other and hopeful for the new baby to come.

And when you do become pregnant again, realize that it is normal and natural for you to feel exceptional anxiety about the possibility of suffering another miscarriage. Talk openly with your doctor or other professional about your feelings, and recognize that your partner may also be feeling the same way. The more you can unload or mitigate your stress, the better you will feel – and the more enjoyable your pregnancy will be.