Depression After Miscarriage: It's Effects Linger

Up to one in four pregnant women will suffer a miscarriage, although some miscarriages happen so early in pregnancy that a woman mistakes it for a normal menstrual period. But in women who experience a miscarriage later in pregnancy, it can have a long-term impact on their emotional health. Anxiety and depression after miscarriage are common, and its effects may linger for years.

Emotions after a Miscarriage: Depression and Anxiety Are Common

When researchers in the U.K. looked at the impact of miscarriage on 13,133 women, they found the emotional impact was long-lasting. In fact, 13% still felt depressed 33 months after their miscarriage. The number was even higher in women who had miscarried more than once. Despite popular belief, anxiety and depression after miscarriage doesn't always go away once a woman gives birth to a healthy baby.

Anxiety and Depression after Miscarriage: It Can Be a Long-Term Problem

Women can experience a variety of emotions after a miscarriage. Some feel shock followed by a deep sense of sadness and loss, while others are angry or blame themselves for the loss of the baby.

No one heals from the loss of a baby in exactly the same way. Some women recover quickly, while others go on to experience chronic anxiety and depression after a miscarriage. This can be made worse by the reactions of others who remind them that they can "always have another baby".

Coping with Lingering Feelings after a Miscarriage

Dealing with emotions after a miscarriage is challenging. Some women benefit from talking to friends or family members, while others will do best in a support group for women who have miscarried. If depression and anxiety are persistent, it helps to talk to a counselor. When depression and grief from a miscarriage doesn't resolve after a few months, it's a good idea to seek professional help.

The Bottom Line?

Anxiety and depression after miscarriage is common, and it can persist for several years - even after a woman goes on to deliver a healthy baby later. They key is to recognize the symptoms of depression after miscarriage and encourage a woman to seek help.

References:

Eurekalert.org. "Women Who Miscarry Continue to Have Mental Health Problems"

Depress Anxiety. 2003; 17(3):152-61.