These are some things Baby Loss parents would appreciate.
  • PLEASE flag our chart:
    Many mothers go in for their postpartum exam and staff are unaware that they have lost their baby.  A simple sticker or some symbol being placed on the folder can be a big help so patients are not asked "where's that little baby today?" or in early loss "your barley even showing". 
  • Facts:
    Provide parents with as much facts as possible.  Pamphlets and hard copies of test results are helpful since going back to the office without being pregnant is overwhelming enough, it's hard to remember all the issues discussed.
  • Appointment Times:Schedule baby loss postpartum appointments at the end of the day, so they don't have to see glowing pregnant women in the waiting room, it's too soon and hurts too much for such broken hearts.
  • Conceiving After Loss:
    Many families will want to try to have another baby. Talk about any extra testing in the next pregnancy if needed (like progesterone levels and extra ultrasounds)
  • Language Counts:
    -We all know what words the medical records use... but Parents prefer words like Baby, over fetus or embryo. These words make parents feel that their baby was "damaged" or "not really a baby, because they didn't live outside the womb".
    -Please try not to refer to miscarrying a baby as "spontaneous abortion". This word cuts like a knife, when referring to a very loved and wanted baby.
    - Many parents who were able to deliver a baby even if it was technically before the classification of stillborn... Do not like the term miscarriage, Loss is preferred.
  • Let them Know you care:
    Just acknowledge that you care, a simple statement like "I am really sorry for your loss" goes such a long way.  It will mean so much. God made all babies, tiny or full term a baby is a baby and they are all valued.  Many parents feel that they go in for an appointment and it is all business as usual even though their baby passed away.
  • Give Families Resources:Don't just ask if they need support groups.  Give them printed information or business cards to local or online support groups/counseling.
  • Many patients are not comfortable with attending a in person meeting or they don't have time... but might need it later.  Other patients are just trying to stay strong so they say no, and many don't even know what kind of resources are out there.
We have complied many resources for families who have suffered a baby loss Here. You can always supply us as a resource.

Some things OBGYN offices include in their baby loss resource packets:
Pamphlets on their specific trimester of loss, Local Miscarriage/Stillbirth support groups, Local Greif therapists, as well as online support groups.

Items you can add to make your own care packages:
Teddy bear, LED candle, Baby Loss Awareness Ribbon (Pink and Blue)

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