Women’s clinic experts talk about understanding miscarriage: Atlanta OBGYN

Women’s clinic says that a miscarriage is a tragic loss that can cause a mother to experience tremendous grief and sadness. During such times, it's important to know you're not alone. Miscarriages are rarely talked about, but they occur more often than you might expect. Many women are surprised to learn that at least 15-20% of all pregnancies end in miscarriage. Suffering a miscarriage can be a devastating and confusing time for a woman.

Learning more about miscarriages can help many prepare for what's to come and perhaps give them a measure of comfort in knowing that most women who miscarry go on to have successful and happy pregnancies.

Risk factors and causes of miscarriage
Women’s clinic physicians explain that miscarriages can occur any time before the 20th week of pregnancy, though most occur before the end of the first trimester. Once a heartbeat is detected (usually around the 12th week of pregnancy), the chance of a miscarriage significantly decreases. Women have a greater risk of miscarrying as they age.  Miscarriages caused by chromosomal anomalies do not indicate a future risk of miscarriage. Besides the age of the mother and chromosomal anomalies, other risk factors for miscarriage. Again, most women who miscarry proceed to have healthy, successful pregnancies.

What to expect during & after a pregnancy loss?
Women clinic specialists explain that the height of a miscarriage involves heavy bleeding for several hours. It may begin with light spotting and cramping, or heavy bleeding may begin suddenly. You will pass large clots of blood and may have mild to heavy cramping. You may want to begin taking an over-the-counter painkiller or one that your doctor has prescribed early in the miscarriage to prevent cramping from escalating. Most miscarriages can happen at home, though you should stay in contact with your OB/GYN or midwife.

You can usually start having sex about four weeks after a miscarriage and your period will likely come back after six weeks. Though it's possible to get pregnant immediately following a miscarriage, your healthcare provider may recommend you wait for a full menstrual cycle before you try to get pregnant again to allow time for physical healing.

Top Atlanta and Alpharetta GA OBGYNs
Did you or someone you love recently have a miscarriage? Find a pregnancy loss support near you to connect with doctors and women who understand what you're going through. Georgia OBGYN is your best local women's health specialist. We are fully focused on providing the best health care and treatment for women of all ages, we have a full complement of medical specialists ready to help you. Book a consultation with your top Alpharetta and Atlanta OBGYN for your obstetrics and gynecology care.

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