Finding out you’re going to be a parent is one of the most exciting things you’ll ever hear but if your partner suffers a pregnancy loss, it can be devastating.
When a miscarriage occurs the loss your partner feels is acute, both physically and emotionally. However, as an expectant parent, dealing with miscarriage can also be really tough for you too – not only are you worried about your partner’s feelings you may be experiencing your own sense of loss too.
It doesn’t matter if it’s just a few weeks into a pregnancy or 19 weeks in, the effects of miscarriage can be profound and as well as supporting your partner, you should take time to process your own feelings too.
What Is A Miscarriage?
A miscarriage is the spontaneous loss of a pregnancy. The vast majority will occur in the first three months with just 1% happening later in pregnancy.
It is often due to problems with the foetus or the placenta, chromosomal abnormalities, or because the fertilised egg has been attached in the wrong place. It’s completely outside the control of the expectant parent but the emotional and spiritual fallout from it can last for many months.
The Impact Of Miscarriage
To know how to support an expectant partner after their miscarriage, you need to understand the physical and emotional impact of a miscarriage:
- Physical Effects – Your partner will experience many unpleasant effects such as heavy bleeding, pain, and the physical passing of the foetus. Their hormones will also be fluctuating which can impact their wellbeing.
- Emotional Effects – Your partner will experience a rollercoaster of emotions. There may be feelings of emptiness, guilt, failure, and grief. You both may also be fearful of falling pregnant again and suffer from depression or despondency.
How To Support A Partner After A Miscarriage
There are several ways you can support your partner:
Take Time To Listen
Understand they may be experiencing a range of emotions (grief, guilt, anger, sadness, rage, confusion). Validate their feelings, don’t ignore them, and let them know it’s okay to process them in their own way.
Every Grieving Process Is Different
Appreciate that there is no right or wrong way to grieve. Some women will recover quickly and move on. Others will struggle with grief for weeks, months, and even years. Respect your partner’s individual grieving process – support them when they need it and give them space to heal. For some women, keeping a baby loss keepsake nearby can provide a source of comfort.
Take Time To Learn
Educate yourself about the physical and emotional aspects of a miscarriage so you know what to expect.
Support Sites And Lines
The healing process can be incredibly challenging, and reaching out for help can make a significant difference. For additional support and resources in coping with a miscarriage, consider visiting The Miscarriage Association. Remember, you don’t have to face this journey alone, and seeking support is a crucial step toward healing and finding solace during this difficult time.
Look After Yourself
Don’t forget to look after your own emotional wellbeing too by talking to someone if you need to and understand your feelings about the miscarriage. If you understand and come to terms with what has happened, you’ll be in a far better position to support your partner.
Next Steps
Cherish the memories of your little angel after a miscarriage with Remembered Forever’s Photo frame Urns for infants. Each urn lovingly holds ashes and a cherished photo, serving as a timeless tribute. Reach out to our compassionate team for more information during this difficult time.
Image Source: Canva