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Pregnancy Loss and Mental Health

Pregnancy loss can cause a full range of emotions. It’s not uncommon to feel sadness, depression, stress, worry, or guilt — no matter how far along you are in your pregnancy.

But when feelings of depression and anxiety are severe or don’t go away, it’s important to talk to your health care provider to get the help you need.

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What Is Pregnancy Loss-Related Mental Health?  

Doctors define pregnancy loss-related mental health as the emotions and feelings you have after experiencing the loss of a baby at any point during a pregnancy or shortly after birth.

Pregnancy loss can include:

  • Ectopic pregnancy.
  • Fetal death.
  • Miscarriage.
  • Pregnancy termination/disruption.
  • Stillbirth.

Pregnancy loss is a traumatic event that can cause sadness, grief, guilt, and a range of other emotions. As a result, some people develop severe feelings of depression and anxiety that don’t go away.

How common are mental health issues after a pregnancy loss?

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) estimates that 26% of pregnancies end in miscarriage, which also is known as early pregnancy loss. In addition, just under 1% of full-term pregnancies end in stillbirth.

Although common, pregnancy loss is only a statistic until it happens to you. And because mental health issues may develop in the weeks, months, and sometimes years after a pregnancy loss, you might miss or gloss over their true nature.

If you're struggling following a pregnancy loss, you're not alone. Studies show that of women who had experienced pregnancy loss:

  • 55% had symptoms of depression.
  • Up to 27% experienced perinatal grief.
  • More than 18% had moderate anxiety.

Who is at risk for mental health issues related to pregnancy loss?

Anyone who goes through a pregnancy loss is at risk of developing mental health issues. However, you may have a higher risk if you have a personal or family history of mental health issues.

How can I prevent mental health issues related to pregnancy loss?

The best way to prevent pregnancy loss-related mental health issues is to be proactive and get help at the first signs of depression, stress, and worry.

You can also be proactive by eating well, exercising, and spending time doing activities you enjoy. Take time to relax, using deep breathing, yoga, massage, and guided imagery to help.

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What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Pregnancy Loss-Related Mental Health Issues? 

Symptoms of mental health issues may show up shortly after pregnancy loss or develop weeks, months, or even years later.

Symptoms may include:

  • Changes in sleep patterns, such as difficulty falling or staying asleep.
  • Depression that doesn't seem to go away.
  • Difficulty thinking about anything other than your pregnancy loss.
  • High levels of anxiety, stress, or worry.
  • Inability to focus on completing tasks and difficulty concentrating more than usual.
  • Increase in drug or alcohol use.
  • Loss of interest in everyday activities.
  • Marked increase or decrease in your appetite and weight.
  • Persistent feelings of pessimism, guilt, worthlessness, bitterness, or anger.
  • Social isolation.
  • Strain in your personal relationships.
  • Thoughts of death or suicide.

When should I see a doctor about my pregnancy loss-related mental health symptoms?

It's normal to experience a range of emotions after a pregnancy loss, recent or past. But if symptoms of depression or anxiety persist for more than a few days, see your doctor for help.

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How Do You Diagnose Pregnancy Loss-Related Mental Health Issues?  

Your doctor will ask about the symptoms you've been having and then outline treatment options.

Mental health issues that require treatment after pregnancy loss include:

  • Anxiety.
  • Depression.
  • Feelings of loss and grief.
  • Panic attacks.
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
  • Stress.
  • Stress in your marriage or relationship.

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How Do You Treat Pregnancy Loss-Related Mental Health?  

Treatment for mental health issues after pregnancy loss, like stress, anxiety, and depression, depends on their severity.

Treatments your doctor may recommend include:

  • Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications — These drugs treat moderate to severe severe symptoms. But before prescribing them, your doctor will consider your future plans for building your family and the impact they might have on your developing baby should you become pregnant again.
  • Counseling — UPMC offers one-on-one counseling and group therapy to help people discuss and manage stress, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. Our specialists may also recommend exercise therapy, light therapy, or other alternative treatment options to help you manage mental issues related to your pregnancy loss.
  • Support groups – Support groups are recommended for those who have experienced pregnancy loss. UPMC offers in-person and virtual support groups to help you find an option that works best for you.

Last reviewed by a UPMC medical professional on 2024-09-05.