Firstly, if you're here because you have experienced loss of some kind - I am sorry you've gone through that. Baby loss, also known as pregnancy or infant loss, refers to the devastating experience of losing a baby before or shortly after birth. It can occur at any stage of pregnancy or during infancy. The loss can be emotionally and physically challenging for the parents and their families. In this blog we'll look at some information about signs and symptoms, as well as types of baby loss, and available help and support.
Illustration: Via Instagram/@lianalaneart
Signs and Symptoms:
Vaginal bleeding or spotting
Severe abdominal or back pain
Loss of pregnancy symptoms (such as breast tenderness or morning sickness)
Absence of fetal movement
Contractions or labor pains before the baby is due
Premature rupture of membranes (water breaking) before the baby is due
In the case of infant loss, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) may occur without any warning signs.
Types of Baby Loss:
Miscarriage: The loss of a baby before the 20th week of pregnancy.
Stillbirth: The loss of a baby after the 20th week of pregnancy but before birth.
Neonatal death: The loss of a baby within the first 28 days of life.
SIDS: The sudden and unexplained death of a baby under one year of age.
Help and Support:
Healthcare professionals: Reach out to your healthcare provider, such as your obstetrician or pediatrician, who can provide guidance, support, and necessary medical care.
Support groups: Joining support groups specifically for baby loss can help you connect with others who have experienced similar losses and share their stories and coping strategies.
Counseling or therapy: Consider seeking professional counseling or therapy to work through the grief and emotions associated with baby loss.
Online communities: Participating in online forums, groups, or social media platforms dedicated to baby loss can provide a supportive community where you can share your feelings and find comfort in others' experiences.
Family and friends: Lean on your loved ones for emotional support and understanding during this difficult time.
Nonprofit organizations: Various organizations offer resources, counseling services, and support specifically for baby loss, such as SANDS (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Society) or March of Dimes.
Remembering rituals: Creating rituals or memorials to honor and remember your baby can be a meaningful way to process your loss. This can include planting a tree, lighting a candle, or writing a letter.
Taking care of yourself: Engage in self-care activities that help you cope with grief, such as exercise, journaling, meditation, or pursuing hobbies.
Remember that the grieving process is unique to each individual, and it's essential to allow yourself time to heal. Seek support and reach out to professionals who can guide you through this difficult journey.
Additional resources:
The Worst Girl Gang Ever - https://theworstgirlgangever.co.uk/
Tommy's - https://www.tommys.org/baby-loss-support
SANDs - https://www.sands.org.uk/support-you/understanding-why-your-baby-died/useful-link-and-organisations
Miscarriage Association - http://ww1.miscarriageassociation.co.uk/
Did you know that Beyond the Bump offers Birth Debrief/Afterthoughts sessions, as well as Birth Trauma Resolution Therapy. Both can be used during fertility struggles or if you have experienced baby loss, and is appropriate for mums/dads/partners.
Comments