Love and Support
Why?
Two scientific studies amazingly show identical results of an 86% successful pregnancy rate after unexplained recurrent miscarriage as a result of extra emotional and medical support. This was in contrast to a 33% successful pregnancy rate in the group who received no extra support. No-one knows exactly why this is the case but being cherished and supported feels good and probably boosts the immune system.
What you can do
Look at your support network which ideally includes your partner, doctor, family and close friends. Then look beyond to other friends and maybe an alternative therapist, counsellor or support group. It is important that everyone is working towards the same goal and are there for you when you need them. Your team should include both personal friends and family and medical/other professionals. If necessary make changes to strengthen the support around you. You might want to change your doctor if you feel she/he is unsupportive, or ask to increase visits during your pregnancy and request extra ultrasounds, especially an early one at 6 weeks, if you feel it will re-assure you.
Share your feelings with your partner and strengthen your bond. Do a list of ten things you enjoy doing together (going for a walk, candlelit dinner, cinema etc.,) and make sure you do them several times a week. Talk positively together about having a baby and the changes it will have on your life and plan how you will adjust to these changes and challenges together. Talk about any outstanding issues or concerns either of you have about bringing a baby into your lives. Relax together and listen to our Fertility Meditation for Couples.
Give yourself lots of tender loving care. Lots of You Time. Listen to our Coping with Miscarriage meditation. Consider talking to a counsellor or treating yourself to a course of reflexology or aromatherapy massage to support your mind and body at this time. Or have a weekend away. Put yourself first before any personal or professional obligations. Do whatever makes YOU feel good.
Some studies also show it is a good idea to take time off work and relax for two weeks at the same time in the pregnancy that you previously miscarried, although it's important that you follow your instincts and do what's right for you.
Stay positive
A study at Liverpool Hospital shows clearly how the chances of a successful pregnancy rapidly rise each week that you are pregnant as follows:
| 6 weeks | 78% chance of success |
| 7 weeks (heartbeat detected) | 97% chance of success |
| 8 weeks | 98% chance of success |
| 10 weeks | 99.4% chance of success |
Research and Articles
- Stray-Pederson. Aetiologic factors and subsequent reproductive performance in 195 couples with a prior history of habitual abortion - American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology 1984
- Liddle, Pattinson & Zanderigo. Recurrent miscarriage - outcome after supportive care in early pregnancy. Australian Journal of O & G 1991
- A longitudinal study of pregnancy outcome following idiopathic recurrent miscarriage. Human Rep vol 14 no 11 1999
- Future pregnancy outcome in unexplained recurrent first trimester miscarriage - K Clifford, R Rai & L Regan, Department of Obs & Gyne, Imperial College School of Medicine at St. Mary's, London. Human Reproduction, Vol12, 387-389, 1997
- The conception connection - Psychologies Magazine 2006
- Importance of a Supportive Doctor After Recurrent Miscarriages - Krissi Danielsson, About.com July 2008
- Couples 'need more support after miscarriage' - BBC online, Sep 1999
