When can you get pregnant again after a miscarriage?
Becoming pregnant after a miscarriage is one of the greatest wishes of many affected women. In principle, the risk of a repeat miscarriage is slightly higher after a miscarriage. However, after a single miscarriage, there is an 85% chance that another pregnancy will occur without any problems.
If a woman has already had two miscarriages, statistics show that the risk of another miscarriage is between 19 and 35 percent. After three miscarriages, the risk increases to between 25 and 46 percent. The following information explains what to look out for if you want to get pregnant again after a miscarriage.
Pregnant after a miscarriage: what tests are important?
Before a woman becomes pregnant again after a miscarriage, it is advisable to undergo a number of examinations beforehand. In addition to the general gynecological examination, these include further extensive measures:
Examination of the genetic material
Examination of the hormone balance
If the levels of certain hormones in a woman’s body fluctuate or if a certain hormone is even missing, the risk of miscarriage increases. Hormones of the sugar metabolism and the thyroid gland play a special role. Diseases such as hyperthyroidism or diabetes mellitus may limit fertility if left untreated.
To increase the chances of pregnancy, it is important that these conditions are treated by a doctor. Equally relevant for fertility after a miscarriage is the determination of female sex hormones. The doctor also takes into account the cycle of the affected woman.
Exclusion of infections
In order to increase the probability of an intact pregnancy after a miscarriage, it is important to rule out infections caused by viruses, bacteria or fungi. To do this, the doctor takes a swab from the cervix and tests it for pathogens. He also takes a blood sample. If a pathogen is found, it is important to treat the infection before a new pregnancy.
Ultrasound
Another risk factor for a miscarriage is malformations of the uterus. These can usually be detected with an ultrasound scan. If a woman has already suffered several miscarriages, the doctor will examine the uterus through the vagina (hysteroscopy).
Antibody detection
Antibodies are proteins of the immune system. They normally act against unwanted intruders. However, it can happen that they are directed against the body’s own structures. This may also have an effect on a pregnancy: The fertilized egg is attacked and a miscarriage occurs.
What you can do yourself after a miscarriage
It is generally possible to get pregnant again after a miscarriage. It is helpful to pay attention to a few points.
Give yourself time!
If your cycle returns to normal after a miscarriage, pregnancy is biologically possible. However, doctors advise against getting pregnant again immediately after a miscarriage. On the one hand, it is important that the body recovers properly after a miscarriage. Secondly, many women need time to come to terms mentally with a miscarriage.
A good mental state has a positive effect on pregnancy after a miscarriage.
When do ovulation and periods return after a miscarriage?
The best time to try for a new pregnancy after a miscarriage is best discussed individually with your doctor.
Avoid risks
There are some avoidable risk factors for miscarriage. These include smoking and alcohol, for example. Excessive physical exertion at work or extreme sports are also not recommended. If you are pregnant again after a miscarriage, it is advisable to adhere to this recommendation particularly strictly.
Create a stable environment
Women who become pregnant again after a miscarriage are often afraid of having another miscarriage. Talk to your partner or close friends about your concerns. Some mothers-to-be also find it helpful to talk to midwives and attend their preparation courses.
Visit your gynecologist regularly
Attend your regular antenatal check-ups. Risks such as infections can be detected and eliminated at an early stage. Not every bleed is a sign of a miscarriage. But every abnormality should be taken seriously. Always ask your doctor for advice if you have any complaints during pregnancy.
