When planning a pregnancy, and especially once you are pregnant, life will seem an endless stream of new experiences, prompting questions on pregnancy itself, the developing baby, your own health and the effects of the change in relationship for the other family members. The delivery is one whole big area, which will never be quite as you imagine it, but the best way to cope is to be prepared with good information and a flexible attitude. The focus is often on the delivery itself and whilst we all want it to be a good experience, our priority must be a healthy baby. Despite this, there are many issues, which can cause additional concern. Worry over why you have miscarried and medical problems the foetus may have had, grieving for the lost 'child' and concern over your own health and the risk to future pregnancies are common and can be helped by support and counselling.
Recurrent miscarriage is particularly distressing.
These couples may have to undergo further testing to try to establish a cause, although for many, there is no simple answer. Where a cause is found, such as a loose cervix or underdeveloped placenta, there is potential for treatment which can reduce the risk for future pregnancies. It is often worse at either end of a womans reproductive life, i.e. around puberty and before the menopause. Hormone treatments, either the contraceptive pill or progestagen, may help. Changes in lifestyle can be helpful, including dietary changes, frequent small meals, avoiding caffeine and learning relaxation methods.