New Delhi: Pregnancy is not just sensitive but also auspicious for most women. From eating habits to sleeping patterns to cravings, everything has to be managed mindfully to preserve the mother’s and baby’s health. While exposure to alcohol and toxins is out of the question, doctors in some cases recommend abstaining from even healthy foods like papayas citing the risk of miscarriage. Miscarriage refers to the loss of a pregnancy before the baby can survive on its own, and this state is physically and mentally painful for a mother. But ever wondered about the silent struggles of a miscarriage?
Dr Nirmala Chandrashekar, Sr Consultant Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Gleneagles BGS Hospital, Kengeri, Bengaluru, shed light on the silent struggles of a miscarriage.
The intensity of the reactions could be directly related to:
- Duration of pregnancy: The longer the duration the more intense the grief
- History of previous losses can exaggerate the response
Following a miscarriage, the couple can experience a range of emotional and psychological challenges including intense grief, shock, sadness, guilt, emptiness, anxiety, depression, feelings of failure, loss of control, fear of future pregnancies, and post-traumatic stress symptoms, often depending on the stage of pregnancy at which the loss occurred and the family support; it’s important to acknowledge and process these feelings, seeking support from loved ones or a mental health professional if needed during that period.
- Grief and sadness: This is the most common emotion, from the loss of a baby and the dreams associated with pregnancy. Distraction towards more positive aspects in life and counting the blessings and things that are going well will relieve intense grief
- Guilt and self-blame: Many people may feel responsible for the miscarriage, even though it is usually not within their control. Replace the ‘Why me’ attitude with a more acceptance and let go mode.
- Shock and disbelief: The couple is unable to accept that the baby’s heartbeat is not to be seen on a scan or that the baby is already in the process of abortion.
- Anxiety and fear: Worrying about future pregnancies, potential complications, and the ability to conceive again can be prevalent.
- Loss of control: Feeling helpless over the situation.
Isolation and loneliness: Some people may withdraw from social interaction as they feel ashamed to answer the questions of their relatives - Relationship difficulties: The experience of miscarriage can strain relationships with partners. The inability to conceive or have a live baby has led to misunderstandings and separation too. A more understanding attitude rather than a blame game is expected of both partners
- Physical symptoms: Some people may experience physical symptoms like fatigue, loss of appetite, disturbed sleep patterns, and headaches alongside their emotional distress.
Coping mechanisms
- Social support: Strong family support, support groups social networks and can provide comfort and support during this difficult time.
- Roll of Medical personnel: The quality of care and counseling received from healthcare professionals can significantly influence the emotional response of the couple. Being more compassionate towards the loss helps the couple deal with it better
- Consult a psychologist: A psychologist can provide professional help in dealing with the situation better.
- Role of support group: Discussing with others who have experienced miscarriage can reduce the guilt
- Spiritual aspect: The trust and belief in the higher force enables the couple to be less anxious and can deal with the situation better. Meditation, breathing techniques, and exercises (even a walk, being with nature) strengthen the mind.
After a miscarriage, the mental and physical struggles of a mother-to-be snowball. Know about the repercussions of miscarriage on health. Mental Health Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
