How long does it take to get a period after a natural miscarriage?

Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 15, 2024
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For patients who have had a spontaneous miscarriage, if their menstrual cycle is usually regular, the first day of the spontaneous miscarriage is the time when their next period would begin. However, if the miscarriage is incomplete and a dilation and curettage (D&C) procedure is required, the first day after the D&C is considered the start date for the next menstrual cycle.

Some people experience spontaneous miscarriages due to menstrual irregularities and an irregular menstrual cycle, which may be caused by hormonal imbalances. In such cases, the timing of the next period after a miscarriage is uncertain.

If the menstrual cycle is regular, the next period can be estimated based on the aforementioned timings. However, if the cycle is irregular, the timing of the next period post-miscarriage primarily depends on the condition of the endometrium. If the endometrium has recovered to a thickness of 1.0 or more, menstruation is likely to occur. If the endometrial lining is thin, menstruation may not occur for the time being.

Therefore, the length of time until menstruation resumes following a spontaneous miscarriage also requires monitoring of the hormonal balance and the regularity of the usual menstrual cycle.

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What not to eat after a miscarriage

After a natural miscarriage, some people may become very weak. In such cases, it is important to consume mild and easily digestible foods. Foods that should be avoided are those that promote blood circulation, such as jujube. Drinking brown sugar water is advisable as it can help contract the uterus. Miscarriage can cause minor physical trauma or damage, so during this period, avoid consuming too cold or too spicy foods. Eating such foods may exacerbate abdominal pain or lead to infections.

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What are the symptoms of a natural miscarriage?

During a natural miscarriage, the most typical clinical symptoms include abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding. Based on the different symptoms of a natural miscarriage, women should undergo differential diagnosis. When a woman experiences abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding, it may initially suggest a threatened miscarriage. If the abdominal pain worsens and vaginal bleeding increases, it could progress to an inevitable miscarriage. An inevitable miscarriage can further be classified into complete or incomplete miscarriage. In the case of a complete miscarriage, the abdominal pain generally subsides gradually, and the vaginal bleeding eventually stops. In contrast, during an incomplete miscarriage, the vaginal bleeding lasts longer, and the abdominal pain is prolonged. At this point, it is necessary to visit a hospital for an examination to check if there are any remnants in the uterine cavity and to receive further treatment.

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Does a natural miscarriage count as an abortion?

Is miscarriage considered the same as abortion? These are not the same concepts, but they share similarities. Miscarriage is due to factors related to the mother or fetus, leading to the natural loss of the embryo, whereas abortion involves artificially inducing the removal of the embryo from the womb. Although miscarriages might also result in some postpartum complications, abortions tend to have more complications due to the artificial means involved. These artificial ways include surgical abortion procedures, during which there might be risks of infection and damage to the uterine lining.

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What to eat after a natural miscarriage

After a natural miscarriage, it's important to pay attention to dietary adjustments, ensuring a balanced intake of both meat and vegetables, and reasonably incorporating nutrients. The diet should include more protein-rich foods, such as eggs, lean meats, dairy, and bean products, all of which can help replenish the body's energy. Additionally, it's important to consume foods rich in iron, since women may experience bleeding after a miscarriage, leading to iron loss. Therefore, eating more iron-containing foods, including eggs, animal organs, animal blood, and jujube, is advisable. Moreover, consuming more vitamin-rich foods to enhance the body's immune system is recommended. Eating fresh vegetables and fruit can strengthen the immune system, promote digestion and absorption, prevent constipation during pregnancy, and facilitate physical recovery.

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How long does it take for the placenta to come out after a natural miscarriage?

During a natural miscarriage, the timing of the placenta's expulsion is not fixed. In some cases, the fetus and placenta may be expelled together soon after abdominal pain begins, while in others, the expulsion may occur slightly later. After the fetus is expelled, it may be minutes or hours before the placenta is expelled. It is recommended to visit a hospital for an ultrasound examination after a natural miscarriage to check if the uterine cavity is clean and free of any residual tissue. After a natural miscarriage, it is important to take care of oneself. Resting, avoiding overexertion, keeping warm, and not getting chilled are crucial. Strengthening nutrition is also important; consuming foods rich in vitamins and protein can help replenish energy, enhance physical condition, and promote recovery.