Getting pregnant after a miscarriage: your cycle and ovulation
If you’d like to get pregnant again after a miscarriage, it may help to track your cycle and ovulation to decide when the right time is to try again.
A miscarriage is one of the most difficult experiences a woman can go through. Unfortunately, the subject is still considered taboo and is rarely discussed openly. Yet it is much more common than you might think: Around one in three women experiences a miscarriage, usually in the first three months of pregnancy.
It’s important to know that you’re not alone and that there are ways to get pregnant again after a miscarriage.
Coming to terms with the loss
Every woman copes with a miscarriage differently. Many feel deep sadness and fear of another miscarriage. These feelings are completely normal. The right time to try for another pregnancy depends on when you feel emotionally ready again and have come to terms with the loss.
Physical Recovery and Restoration of the Cycle
Following an early, uncomplicated miscarriage, you can physically become pregnant again straight away. Using the NFP method, you can monitor when your cycle resumes and whether you are ovulating after the miscarriage.
WHO recommendations and recent studies
The World Health Organisation (WHO) advises waiting at least six months after a miscarriage. However, recent studies show that this is not strictly necessary in the case of early, uncomplicated miscarriages.
Dilation and curettage and waiting periods
If you have had a dilation and curettage (D&C), there is usually no specific waiting period. Your body usually recovers quickly.
Pregnancy following a more advanced miscarriage
If the pregnancy was at a more advanced stage, a waiting period is advisable. Your body needs time to recover so that the uterus can shrink back to its normal size and heal. It may be advisable to wait for at least one menstrual cycle.
Return of ovulation
For some women, ovulation resumes quickly; for others, it takes a little longer. With NFP, you can check whether you’re ovulating again after the miscarriage.
If you’re not ovulating, it may be helpful to consult your gynaecologist or a certified NFP counsellor. Sometimes the body simply needs a little more time to regain its balance.
Support
You are also entitled to support from a midwife during a miscarriage! If you’d like to understand your cycle better after a miscarriage, contact a certified NFP counsellor.
Conclusion
A miscarriage is a painful experience. With the right support and by keeping a close eye on your cycle, you can look to the future with confidence. Your body will give you the signs when the time is right.