Last Updated on January 14, 2023
Losing a baby through stillbirth is deeply painful and devastating. While it is not possible to undo such a tragedy, there are ways to begin the healing process afterward. First and foremost, it is important to find support from friends, family, and other sources designed specifically for helping those who have experienced stillbirth. It may also be beneficial to talk to a therapist or counselor, as this will allow you to express and explore your emotions more deeply.
Finding ways to honor the memory of the stillborn child can be an important part of healing. This may involve creating a scrapbook, writing poems or stories about their brief life, planting a memorial tree or garden, having a memorial service, or other creative acts of remembrance.
It can also be helpful to accept the emotions that arise from stillbirth. Sadness, anger, guilt, and grief are all normal feelings to experience after a stillbirth; it is important to allow yourself time for these emotions instead of burying them or pretending they aren’t there.
Being patient with the healing process is key. Grief takes time and it’s important to be gentle with yourself as you go through it. Lastly, understanding that stillbirth can have a lasting effect on your life journey is essential; there may always be a part of you that will never forget what has happened. With patience and support, however, healing from a stillbirth is possible.
Are Stillbirths Common?
While stillbirths are not common, they do occur more often than many people realize. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about one in 160 pregnancies ends in stillbirth. Even with this statistic, it is important to remember that every experience of stillbirth is unique and no two experiences will be exactly alike. Understanding how common stillbirth is can provide helpful context when grieving and healing from such an experience.
It is also important to remember that stillbirths are often unpreventable, so it’s essential to avoid blaming yourself if you have experienced one. It is always best to speak with a healthcare professional if you have any questions or concerns about your health or the health of your baby. Unfortunately, not all stillbirths can be prevented and it is important to remember that this type of loss is common and should be acknowledged as such. Taking steps towards healing may help with a more complete recovery. With patience, kindness, and support, healing from a stillbirth is possible.
6 Ways To Heal From A Stillbirth
- Find support from family, friends, and other sources designed specifically for those who have experienced stillbirth.
- Talk to a therapist or counselor so you can express your emotions more deeply.
- Honor the memory of the stillborn child with creative acts such as creating a scrapbook, or planting a memorial tree or garden.
- Honor the memory of your child through creative acts such as making a scrapbook, writing stories or poems about their brief life, having a memorial service, or planting a memorial tree or garden.
- Allow yourself to experience the emotions that come with stillbirths such as sadness, anger, guilt, and grief.
- Understand that healing from a stillbirth is an ongoing process and be patient with yourself as you work through it. Acknowledging your feelings and seeking support can help in the process.
In Conclusion
No two experiences are exactly alike, but understanding the commonality of stillbirths can provide a helpful context for those grieving and healing. Speaking with your OBGYN or midwife is a great idea as well.
By following these 6 steps, you will be able to begin the healing process after experiencing a stillbirth. Knowing that stillbirths are more common than many people realize can also provide helpful context when grieving and healing from such an experience. It is important to find ways to honor your child and to seek out support from family, friends, and other resources to aid in the healing process. With patience and understanding, you can begin to heal from a stillbirth. Thank you for reading. If you or someone you know has experienced a stillbirth, please do not hesitate to reach out for help and support. It is important to remember that you are not alone and healing is possible.