The loss of a baby is almost always unforeseen. Despite medical advances, nearly 1 in 4 pregnancies end in loss through miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy or still birth. (www.nationalshare.org) Most of us feel helpless and unsure of what to say to couples who have lost a child this way. We can, however, learn more about the impact of pregnancy loss and hopefully be enabled to offer sensitive and caring support at this difficult time.

Remember that the parents have experienced acute loss, and they and their families are grieving. Parents have prayed for, planned for and prepared for a child. Mothers and fathers bond with their unborn baby during pregnancy and grieve for the child they felt they already knew, as well as for the dreams of the future. The bereaved father’s feelings are often downplayed or dismissed. Not only is he mourning the loss of his child, but he is supporting his grieving wife and still carrying on as the head of the family. Older children in the home may be confused or angry and saddened by the loss. Grandparents bear the loss of a grandchild, mourning for themselves and grieving with their children.

Not knowing what to say or do to help is an awful feeling.

Parents who have lost children tell us what has been helpful to them, and what has not. Comments such as, “You’re young, you can try again,” or “It was God’s will,” although well-meant can instead make the parents feel more alone and misunderstood, the loss and their feelings dismissed. The baby that has died, whether through miscarriage or still birth, cannot be replaced by another child, and considering another pregnancy during the grieving process may seem unbearable to the couple.

Fear of saying the wrong thing may lead friends to avoid the subject altogether. Please do not stay away. Not speaking about the loss does not lessen its reality. Grieving parents need your loving support. Talking things over with people who care about them can provide a good start to healing.

So how can you help?

Most importantly, pray for the family, and pray for God’s guidance in your interactions with them. Keep your comments simple. Be available with a hug and the words, “I’m so sorry for your loss.” Be ready and willing to listen. If you feel uncomfortable as a listener, help with household chores, do errands, provide meals; anything that will allow the mother time for physical healing and the couple and family more time together. Remind them to be patient with each other and their emotions, as mourning takes time.

God, in His time will provide healing. “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” Psalm 147:3. He has also put you in this couples’ life, so stay in touch and continue to offer your caring support.

Helpful Books:

• Empty Arms, by Pam Vredevelt
• I’ll Hold You in Heaven, by Dr. Jack Hayford
• Silent Grief: Miscarriage – Child Loss, by Clara Hinton
• Surviving Pregnancy Loss, by Rochelle Friedman, M.D. & Bonnie Gradstein, M.P.H.
• When Your Baby Dies Through Miscarriage or Stillbirth, by Louis Gamino & Ann Taylor Cooney

Helpful Websites:

• www.nationalshare.org
• www.compassionatefriends.org

Are you, or someone you know, struggling from the loss of a baby? Reach out today at: https://lutheranfamilyservice.org/contact/