Miscarriage and Stillbirth
Grief After Miscarriage or Stillbirth
Understanding, acknowledging, and supporting the invisible loss
What Is Miscarriage?
Miscarriage is the spontaneous loss of a pregnancy before 20 weeks gestation. It affects up to one in four known pregnancies, making it a common yet often hidden experience of loss.
What is Stillbirth?
Stillbirth is defined as the loss of a baby before or during birth (from 20 weeks gestation in Australia).
The Grief Experience
Miscarriage or a stillbirth can trigger deep emotional and physical grief. While not always publicly acknowledged, this type of loss can be profoundly painful and life-altering. The intensity of grief may be shaped by:
- The stage of pregnancy
- Personal hopes and dreams for the baby
- Cultural and spiritual beliefs
- Whether the loss is a first pregnancy or after fertility challenges
- How others respond
Common Reactions
- Shock, guilt, or self-blame
- Sadness, anger, or emotional numbness
- Difficulty concentrating or sleeping
- Physical fatigue or hormonal changes
- Feeling isolated or unsupported
- Relationship strain or changes in intimacy
It's Important to Know:
Grief after miscarriage or stillbirth is valid—no matter how early the loss or how others respond. Everyone grieves differently and on their own timeline.
Supporting Someone After a Miscarriage or stillbirth
- Listen with empathy—don’t minimise their experience
- Acknowledge the baby as real and loved
- Offer practical help and gentle companionship
- Avoid clichés or rushing their grief
- Encourage professional support if needed
Healing Can Involve:
- Talking to a counsellor or grief support service
- Creating space for memorials or rituals
- Journaling or creative expression
- Connecting with others who’ve experienced loss
- Giving yourself permission to grieve—there’s no “right” way
Partners and Loved Ones
Grief may be experienced differently by each parent or support person. It’s important to allow space for all emotional responses, and to support each other through communication and care.
NALAG’s Commitment
At NALAG Grief Support we walk alongside individuals and families through the grief of miscarriage and baby loss. Our services are free, compassionate, and inclusive—ensuring no one carries this grief alone.
You Are Not Alone
Miscarriage or stillbirth grief is real. Your loss matters. Healing is possible—with time, care, and connection.
