Perinatal Bereavement

You are not alone

Experiencing the loss of a pregnancy can be deeply heartbreaking and overwhelming. In moments like these, please know that you are not alone. Despite the love, care, and best medical efforts, loss can occur through miscarriage, stillbirth, or neonatal death. We recognize the depth of your grief and are here to walk beside you through this tender and difficult time.

Our team includes a certified perinatal bereavement nurse who works closely with case managers, chaplains, physicians, and nurses—all specially trained to provide compassionate, respectful care tailored to your needs.

Our Perinatal Loss Program offers support at no cost, including:

• Gentle, individualized care that honors your experience and emotions
• Guidance and support from a certified perinatal bereavement nurse
• Access to helpful literature and online resources for grief and healing
• Healing Through Support — a monthly support group open to all
• Garden of Angels—a no-cost burial program for all pregnancy losses and stillbirths at MWHC, regardless of gestational age

These services are available to anyone in the community, no matter when or where the loss occurred. We also welcome grandparents and extended family members seeking support.

For families facing a diagnosis of a life-limiting condition during pregnancy, our perinatology, obstetric, and neonatology teams collaborate with a broad network of specialists to create a care plan that is thoughtful, personal, and centered on your wishes.

For information on any of these services, please email PerinatalBereavementGroup@mwhc.com or call 540.741.3268.

Emotional wellbeing and mental health resources

Grieving after the loss of a baby is a deeply personal journey. There is no "right" way to grieve and no set timeline for healing. You may experience many emotions, sometimes all at once, including sadness, anger, guilt, relief, numbness or hope. Every response is valid.

Caring for your emotional wellbeing

• Give yourself permission to grieve in your own way and at your own pace.
• Communicate openly with your partner, family members and trusted friends.
• Accept help when it is offered and ask for support when you need it.
• Be patient with yourself as you adjust emotionally and physically.

Self-care during grief

• Prioritize rest, hydration and nourishment.
• Spend time outdoors, if possible.
• Practice mindfulness, meditation, breathing exercises or gentle movement such as yoga.
• Express your feelings through writing, art, music or other creative activities.
• Allow yourself moments of comfort and joy, whether it is enjoying a warm cup of coffee, taking a hot shower or spending time with loved ones.

When to seek additional support

Contact your health care provider if feelings of sadness, anxiety or emotional distress become overwhelming or interfere with daily life. Seek support if you experience:

• Persistent feelings of hopelessness or despair
• Panic attacks or severe anxiety
• Difficulty sleeping due to intrusive thoughts or nightmares
• Symptoms of depression, anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Support resources

• Contact your OB/GYN, midwife or primary care provider for support and referrals.
• Healing Through Support — local, in-person perinatal bereavement support group.
• PostpartumVA.org — Free support, information, and resources for all parents and their family members. The line is staffed by volunteers or staff who either have lived experience or professional experience with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Call or text, English & Spanish: 703-829-7152; Email: warmline@postpartumva.org

When to call your doctor

Even after a pregnancy loss, your body continues to heal. Attend all recommended postpartum follow-up appointments and contact your provider if you experience any concerning symptoms.

Signs of infection or medical complications

Call your provider if you experience:

If you have concerns about your recovery, contact your health care provider promptly.

Honoring and remembering your baby

Finding ways to remember and honor your baby can be an important part of the healing process. There is no right or wrong way to keep your baby's memory close.

Ways to honor your baby

• Keepsakes: Footprints, handprints, a lock of hair or a special piece of clothing.
• Photographs: Many families find comfort in photographs and treasured memories.
• Written expressions: Write letters, journal entries, poems or your baby's story.
• Nature tributes: Plant a tree, flowers or create a memorial garden.
• Special ceremonies: Light a candle, hold a memorial service or create a personal tradition.
• Creative expression: Use art, music or crafts to honor your baby and express your feelings.

Ongoing Remembrance

• Celebrate meaningful dates such as your baby's birthday, due date or anniversary.
• Include your baby in family traditions and special moments.
• Share memories and stories with trusted friends, family members or support groups.

Every act of remembrance, whether large or small, reflects the love you have for your baby. Choose what feels most meaningful and healing for you and your family.

Family planning and future pregnancies

Thinking about future pregnancies and family planning after loss can bring many emotions. There is no timeline you must follow, and it is important to make decisions when you feel physically and emotionally ready.

Physical recovery and fertility

• Discuss your recovery and future pregnancy plans with your health care provider.
• Review any medical considerations related to your pregnancy or delivery.
• Explore contraception options if desired.
• Ask your provider about the safest timing for a future pregnancy based on your individual health needs.

Emotional considerations

• Feelings of grief, hope, fear or guilt may influence family planning decisions.
• It is okay to take time before making decisions about another pregnancy.
• Your needs and feelings may change as healing progresses.
• Emotional readiness is an important part of determining the right path forward.

Managing lactation after baby loss

Understanding lactation after loss

Milk production may begin after a pregnancy or infant loss, even when a baby is not able to breastfeed. This can be an unexpected and emotional part of the grieving process.

Common physical symptoms may include:

• Breast fullness
• Tenderness
• Milk leakage
• Engorgement

Many parents experience strong emotions related to lactation after loss. These feelings are normal and valid.

Options for managing lactation

• Wear a supportive bra for comfort.
• Apply cold compresses to reduce swelling and discomfort.
• Avoid unnecessary breast stimulation, including pumping or frequent breast massage, unless directed by your provider.
• Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen as recommended by your provider.
• If engorgement becomes painful, express a small amount of milk to relieve discomfort without stimulating additional milk production.
• Talk with your provider about medications that may help reduce milk production if appropriate.

If you need support

If you are struggling physically or emotionally, reach out to your health care provider. Additional support and resources are available.

Your body, your experiences and your grief matter. You are not alone. We are here to support you through every step of your healing journey.