Approximately one million pregnancies in the United States end in miscarriage, still birth and death of a newborn. In 1988, President Ronald Reagan designated October as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness month.
Nationwide, at health centers, women and patient support initiatives hold events in memory of those lost and to raise awareness, and aide women and their partners dealing with loss.
Here are some stats to consider and share:
- One in four pregnancies ends in the loss of a baby
- The loss of a child is recognized as the most intense cause of grief
- Parents never “get over” the loss of a child – no matter the age
- Parents experiencing grief without supportive care can have debilitating consequences such as post traumatic stress disorder (PSTD) , depression and anxiety that could further result in job loss, divorce, difficulties in daily living, or impediments with parenting of living children
Getting support through grief is key to recovery, according to Missouri-based Perinatal Bereavement Care. This month, search for a support event near you and spread the word. Start with Hearthside Perinatal Bereavement Care and go from there.
