Not every pregnancy ends with happy outcomes. Pregnancy and infant loss is a harsh reality faced by many. After the loss, you might feel stunned or shocked. You may be asking, "Why me?" You may feel guilty that you did or didn't do something to cause your pregnancy to end. You may feel cheated and angry. Or you may feel extremely sad as you come to terms with the baby that will never be. These emotions are all normal reactions to loss. With time, you will heal. You may grow your family in the future. You will never forget your baby. But you will be able to look forward to life ahead.
To help get you through this difficult time, try some of these ideas:
- Turn to loved ones and friends for support. Share your feelings and ask for help when you need it.
- Talk to your partner about your loss. Keep in mind that men and women cope with loss in different ways.
- Take care of yourself. Eating healthy foods, keeping active, and getting enough sleep will help restore energy and well-being.
- Join a support group, which may help you to feel less alone.
- Do something in remembrance of your baby.
- Seek help from a grief counselor, especially if your grief doesn't ease with time.
Too many families grieve in silence.
October 15 is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day, established to pay tribute to the many bereaved families worldwide who have experienced the loss of pregnancy, newborn or infant.
In Albuquerque, you may link with other families and community partners specializing in grief resources:
- The Grief Center, based in Albuquerque, offers an Infant and Pregnancy Loss support group both in-person and via Zoom, as well as many other grief support groups. To learn more, click here or call 505.323.0478
- March of Dimes is a national group supporting families and children, and offers support to families who have experienced loss of pregnancy, newborn, or infant. To find support, click here.
For help accessing grief resources in your own community, please reach out to Lovelace Labor of Love for direction and support:
505.727.7677