Why are we more fertile after a miscarriage?

Miscarriages, or failed pregnancies, can be a difficult experience for some women. Whether they are early (between the 14th and 22nd week of pregnancy) or late (from the 22nd week of amenorrhea), they raise many concerns, including the fear of infertility. However, did you know that it's precisely after a miscarriage that your chances of conceiving are highest? Yes, it's surprising! So, why are we more fertile after a failed pregnancy? If you're thinking about resuming sexual activity quickly or wondering about the ideal time to try again, this article is for you!

Getting pregnant after a miscarriage: your chances and recommendations

What is the probability of getting pregnant after a miscarriage?

Rest assured: after an early or late miscarriage, you have every chance of getting pregnant again. According to a British study published by the British Medical Journal (BMJ), women who resume sexual activity within six months of their failed pregnancy have a better chance of conceiving a baby. This is because they are less likely to experience:

• another spontaneous miscarriage;
• a premature birth;
• an ectopic pregnancy.

Recommended waiting times before conceiving again

However, is it dangerous to try again too soon? Recommendations on this vary widely. The World Health Organization, for example, suggests waiting at least six months after an isolated miscarriage. But other research, particularly from the BMJ, indicates that it is not necessary to delay a subsequent pregnancy for so long.

The best answer we can give you is simply to listen to your body. And to seek your doctor's advice before embarking on your pregnancy project. He/she will be able to assess your situation to ensure you are physically... and emotionally ready!

Factors to consider for a new pregnancy

Before planning a new pregnancy attempt, you should consider:

• your general health;
• your age;
• the medical reasons behind the previous miscarriage.

Because if you experienced particular complications or showed signs of infection, it might be beneficial to wait for complete recovery before trying for a baby again.

Again, if you have any doubts, ask your midwife, who can advise you on the steps to take to best prepare for your next pregnancy.

The physical impact of miscarriage on fertility

Uterine cleansing and physical recovery

After miscarriages, the body begins a process of uterine cleansing to remove residual pregnancy tissue. This phenomenon is also called "natural curettage." And it's incredibly practical, as it allows the uterus to prepare for a beautiful future pregnancy.

However, it is difficult to predict how long it will take for a woman to recover from a spontaneous abortion, as this period varies greatly. But for the majority of women, the uterus returns to its normal state within a few weeks.

So, if you have just had a spontaneous miscarriage, try to follow medical recommendations closely to monitor for the risk of infection or complications. Rest, eat healthily, and you will help your body recover quickly. And prepare for a new pregnancy, if that is your wish.

Fertility hormones after a miscarriage

Hormones play a very important role in fertility after a failed pregnancy. Pregnancy hormone (HCG) levels decrease, allowing the menstrual cycle to resume normally. However, this process can take a few weeks. Levels of other hormones, such as progesterone and estrogen, will stabilize so that ovulation and the fertile window return to normal.

Early ovulation and the fertile window

Ovulation can resume quickly after early (and late) miscarriages, sometimes within the first few weeks. This means that your female fertility is back and you can get pregnant again even before your first period (this is called the postpartum period). Again, every woman is different, and the timing of ovulation can vary.

Preventing a new failed pregnancy

It cannot be stressed enough: a woman is NEVER responsible for her spontaneous miscarriage or recurrent miscarriages. However, some small actions can be taken to take care of oneself and try to prevent them as much as possible.

Through good lifestyle practices

Nothing new under the sun... Adopting good lifestyle practices can help take care of overall health during the preconception period. Avoid:

• tobacco;
• alcohol consumption;
• drugs.

In short, anything that can harm the baby's development.

You can also engage in regular physical activity to maintain good health. Get plenty of sleep if you can. Yoga and meditation should give you a good boost, especially to better manage your stress!

With dietary recommendations and supplements

Adopt a balanced diet by consuming foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. For example:

• fruits;
• vegetables;
• whole grains;
• lean proteins.

Bonus: you can even supplement with female fertility vitamins. And for your male partner? Male fertility vitamins, of course!

Thanks to vaccination and protection against infections

It may be surprising, but vaccination plays a certain role in preventing failed pregnancies. Are you up to date? Because this will prevent you from being exposed to certain risks of diseases. During pregnancy, you can therefore get vaccinated against:

• seasonal flu;
• COVID-19;
• whooping cough (from the 2nd trimester of pregnancy).

However, it is strongly advised not to get vaccinated against chickenpox and rubella. If you are not immune, do so before or after.

Also remember to practice good hygiene: wash your hands frequently to avoid common infections. Also avoid contact with sick people. And if you suspect anything, consult your doctor quickly.

Frequently asked questions about fertility after a miscarriage

Do the risks of miscarriage increase after a miscarriage?

No, the risks of miscarriage do not necessarily increase after a first spontaneous pregnancy loss. A pregnant woman who experiences this ordeal can very well carry a pregnancy to term afterwards. However, if she experiences several successive pregnancy losses, underlying factors requiring a fertility assessment may be suspected.

Are miscarriages hereditary?

Miscarriages are generally not hereditary. Nevertheless, certain genetic conditions can increase the risk. So, if you have a family history of recurrent miscarriages or cases of infertility, we recommend consulting a geneticist or a specialized doctor to detect any anomalies.

Are miscarriages avoidable?

Miscarriages are difficult to avoid, as the majority of them are due to a chromosomal abnormality which, by definition, cannot be predicted or avoided. However, to limit the risk of recurrence, one can adopt a healthy lifestyle and take the right medical precautions. With, in particular, regular follow-up, which is important to minimize risks.

How to recognize the signs of a miscarriage?

Common signs of a pregnancy loss include:

• vaginal bleeding;
• abdominal pain or cramps;
• loss of tissue or fluid from the vagina.

If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately for evaluation and the support you need.

In summary, remember this above all: getting pregnant after a failed pregnancy is entirely possible and often without complications. Adopt a healthy lifestyle, follow your doctor's advice, and don't hesitate to resume sexual activity... when you feel ready. Because to prepare for a full-term pregnancy, there's nothing like good physical preparation and solid psychological support!