We understand that talking about baby loss isn't always easy, so knowing what happens after baby loss can feel daunting if you don't know what support is available for you during this extremely difficult time.
Whilst pregnancy is supposed to be joyous, for some parents it's not. A heartbreaking reality, according to Tommy's, is that one in four pregnancies end in loss during pregnancy or birth in the UK.
During this time, you not only need to be able to grieve for your baby, but you also need to know what support you can get. Whether it's an early baby loss, or later in your pregnancy, there are different ways you can be supported.
What happens after baby loss?
Finding out that your baby has passed away is devastating and once it is confirmed by a doctor or midwife, you should be offered support.
Whether it's an early miscarriage, or a loss that happens later in your pregnancy or at birth, it's okay to grieve, and it's important to know what happens next.
There are different procedures in place depending on the type of loss that you experience.
Early pregnancy loss or miscarriage
An early pregnancy loss or miscarriage happens before 24 weeks.
Depending on what stage you are at in your pregnancy, your midwife or doctor will discuss the next steps for you, and will probably allow you some time to process what's happened.
It's important to follow up with your doctor or midwife if you spot signs of a miscarriage.
While you can't register your baby, you can now apply for a baby loss certificate to recognise them.
Stillbirth
A baby that is born after 24 weeks and passes away is called a stillbirth.
Following a stillbirth loss, a specialist midwife will discuss whether you want to hold your baby, have photographs taken and hand and footprints taken. They will also talk about different tests that might be available to find out why your baby passed away.
You can legally register your baby in the UK up to 42 days after your baby has been born too.
Can I get a baby loss certificate?
The Government have recently announced that parents who experience a pregnancy loss before 24 weeks, will now be able to apply for a baby loss certificate, as of February 22nd, 2024.
The aim is to support parents who have experienced a loss before 24 weeks and to formally recognise their baby.
Kate Brintworth, Chief Midwifery Officer for England said: "compassionate and personalised care during every stage of pregnancy is vital. I'm please that parents in England will now be able to access a baby loss certificate. It recognises the impact and importance of early pregnancy loss to them and their families."
Do I still get maternity leave after a baby loss?
Returning to work following a baby loss won't be at the top of your priority list, but it's still important to know your rights.
Different places of work might offer different support following a loss. Currently, the Government offers Statutory Parental Bereavement Pay and Leave if you have a stillbirth after 24 weeks of pregnancy.
There is currently no official leave if the loss happens before 24 weeks of pregnancy, however, your employer might allow you to take leave. It's important to have a conversation with your employer about this.
What's the difference between a pregnancy loss and miscarriage?
A miscarriage is a loss of a baby before the 23rd week of pregnancy, according to the NHS. A pregnancy loss can refer to a miscarriage that happens before the 28th week of pregnancy.
Where can I get support for a baby loss?
The most important thing to remember after a baby loss at any stage during your pregnancy, is that it's okay to grieve your loss and you are not alone.
The Miscarriage Association
Available on weekdays between 9am and 4pm, the Miscarriage Association is a charity who provide information and support to parents affected by a baby loss, particularly in the first 23 weeks of pregnancy.
Call: 01924 200 799
Email: info@miscarriageassociation.org.uk
Tommy's
Pregnancy charity Tommy's have a specialist midwife helpline who can support parents with any aspect of a baby loss. They can support in mental health, as well as pregnancy after loss.
Call: 0800 0147 800
Email: midwife@tommys.org
Cruse Bereavement Support
While not specifically for baby loss, Cruse Bereavement Support specialise in helping people with their grief.
Call: 0808 808 1677
Your GP
Reaching out to your local GP can help you to find more localised support groups in your area. They can also help to find appropriate care, advice and support.
You don't just have to rely on services, you can turn to loved ones for miscarriage support too.
Samantha Ball is a Commercial Content Writer and freelanced for the Mother&Baby website for two years before joining the team full-time. She's a mum of two and loves browsing for the best products and cute outfits.