Navigating Pregnancy & Infant Loss: Tips For Support

One in 4 families experience the loss of a child to stillbirth, miscarriage, SIDS, and other causes. We join countless others this month promoting awareness of pregnancy and infant to provide bereaved parents the understanding and support they deserve, as well as tips on how to support a loved one who may be struggling.

Resources for bereaved parents

For the thousands are families who are coping with the loss of an infant or pregnancy, navigating the various emotions can be challenging. What’s most important to know is that you are not alone, and that there are plenty of resources to assist bereaved families.

• PALS: PALs offers pregnancy and infant loss support through connecting you with support groups and educational resources.
• The Tears Foundation: Tears is a national organization with local chapters, bringing people together to support one another and holding an annual remembrance walk.
• RESOLVE– The National Infertility Association website offers support groups for those struggling with infertility and pregnancy loss, is a repository for professional and financial resources, and the association hosts annual walks to raise awareness.

Private counseling can also be helpful. We’re proud to partner with Linqcare for behavioral health resources and mental health support. A dedicated and experienced counselor is ready to help you as you navigate your path to parenthood.

Ask your provider for a referral, or call (484) 229-4545.

How to support someone who has experienced loss

Loss can be very isolating for couples. Being there for your friend or family member throughout this difficult time is the best way to show your support. Visiting, bringing over a meal, sending a card or gift are all simple ways to show you care. Listening to them as they express their feelings and validating their grief is important to help someone move through the stages of grief. Many well-intentioned friends or family members want to be supportive of their loved ones, however, they may find themselves at a loss for the right words. Here are some helpful tips:

What to say

1. I’m sorry for your loss.The simplest statement can sometimes mean the most to someone grieving. Sharing your condolences is an easy and straightforward way to show you care.
   2. I’m thinking of you.Sometimes grief comes in waves. Letting someone know you are thinking of them as they heal can be helpful.
   3. It’s not your fault. Women tend to experience feelings of guilt after suffering a miscarriage or infant loss, even if they are told there was nothing they could have done to prevent the outcome. It is important for them to be reminded that they were not the cause and are not at fault.

What to avoid saying

1. Everything happens for a reason. While this is a common phrase loved ones use to show support, this can minimize the pain a couple experiences while searching for a reason why this happened to them.
   2. You can try again.Each loss is individual. Having a living child or a chance at another pregnancy does not negate feelings of grief.
   3. At least you can get pregnant.Focusing on the positives in some situations may be helpful, however, in this instance it also minimizes the feelings of grief.

Our team proudly supports the loss community in remembrance during pregnancy and infant loss awareness month, and every day. We remember.