Pregnancy And Infant Loss Awareness 

Pregnancy And Infant Loss Awareness 

Pregnancy loss is complex, and it can be incredibly isolating, even though 1 in 4 pregnancies ends in miscarriage. Hopefully, with continued awareness efforts, we as a society can help end the silence surrounding pregnancy and infant loss and bring support to those who have been through it. 

How can you support someone who has experienced a loss?

• Give them some space to grieve. Some couples do not feel comfortable sharing their experience right away and need time to process and regain their strength. 
• Send flowers or bring food. Showing you care without invading their privacy and lending a helping hand is helpful.
• If some time has passed, then you can check-in. Many people are unable to speak about their loss in the beginning but do not want their child to be forgotten. These precious babies are still a significant part of them and their families.
• Let them know you are there for them and are a safe place to talk about these issues. 

Phases to avoid saying to those who have experienced a loss:

• Avoid 'if it was meant to be' speak or that 'it happened for a reason'.
• Do not dismiss their child or their experience.
• Do not tell them how to feel.
• Do not tell them 'You can have another child'.
• Do not tell them to be strong. They are already strong. 

What resources are available to those of you who have had a loss?

• Star Legacy Foundation is an excellent resource that provides family support materials and companion services to bereaved families. Their mission is to increase awareness, support research, promote education, and encourage advocacy and family support regarding stillbirth, pregnancy loss, and neonatal death.
• Another way to get support is to find a local loss support group.
• Find an individual grief therapist to help your family cope with loss. 
• Create a ritual that helps you remember and honor your child.
• Reaching out to loved ones or people you trust to help support you through this time. 

Through support and awareness, there is hope to change the way pregnancy and infant loss is viewed. Here at Tiny Human Print Co., we want to highlight we are an ally for all mothers and caretakers.