Coping with grief after the loss of a baby
Baby loss in the womb, during delivery or soon after birth - can be a depressing life experience. If you are struggling with coping with grief after the loss of a baby, here are some thoughtful ways to help you overcome your grief.
Last Updated: 22 October 2020
Conceiving a baby is one of the miraculous phases of life. But, under unfortunate circumstances, when the baby is lost, it can cause great grief and bereavement to the family. In spite of the fact that coping with grief after the loss of a baby could be a rough phase to handle, most couples eventually get back from the loss and get prepared for a rainbow baby. Here’s how you can help yourself from the grief:
Take support from family and friends
The first few days or weeks after your baby’s loss aren’t going to be anything easy. If you are the primary caretaker of your home, children and family, you may need to seek an alternative support like an immediate family member, a babysitter for your older children or a trusted friend to take your role, while you are struggling with coping with grief after the loss of a baby.
Allow your partner to share your grief
How a mother and father react to the loss of a baby can be different. Postpartum depression can add to a mother’s grief, making her vulnerable to emotional instability. The father may not necessarily understand the hormonal changes that make a woman down soon after pregnancy. It is wise to make time for an open talk between you two while you are coping with grief after the loss of a baby so that your partner is given an opportunity to understand your emotions.
Recovering from pregnancy and labor
In addition to recovering from the loss of your baby, your body is also recovering from a pregnancy and labor in some cases. The stress of your baby’s loss may have its effect on your physical health. It is important not to ignore your everyday health though it may not seem a priority soon after a loss.
§ Take care of your nutritional needs by eating healthy.
§ Getting actively involved in an exercise regime, after the initial recovery phase, can greatly help in coping with grief after the loss of a baby.
§ Sleep disturbances for a prolonged period of time after the loss must be consulted with your healthcare provider.
Seek community support
Check for local community supports in your area for coping with grief after the loss of a baby. Sharing your experiences and emotions to a social worker, another mother who lost her baby or a member of a mental wellness organization can make your feel better. You may also get an opportunity to collect important information which you were not aware of.
How to cope when you are expecting a rainbow baby?
In spite of the hope that your rainbow baby has come to give you, you might not be able to completely get over with the loss of the previous one. Here are some helpful tips to cope up with your situation:
· Understanding that your rainbow bundle needs love that is devoid of grief can help you come to terms that you cannot ignore the present in your hand because the past bereaved you.
· Read stories of rainbow babies and how their arrival brought hope and joy to their families.
· Baby loss wasn’t your fault and so, it need not put you in guilt to try for another.
· Get support from your partner, family and friends to help you in other areas of your life so that you can give priority to matters of your rainbow baby.
· If grief overcomes you, consult a psychiatrist or therapist to seek medical help.
· Be aware of the past reasons of the baby loss and take care to monitor your pregnancy and baby closely.
You may want to read some related articles:
§ Stillbirth Symptoms and Risks
§ Giving birth to a stillborn baby
