Support

After your baby has died, understanding family members or close friends may provide valuable support. However, there may be occasions when you feel particularly alone, and the support of other people who have experienced a similar loss may be helpful.

A hospital or community social worker, migrant health worker, bereavement counsellor, or bereavement support organisation such as Red Nose Grief and Loss may provide the support or assistance you need at these times.

Special Circumstances

You may find that special circumstances add to your feelings of grief. The loss of a previous baby, years of trying to conceive, or prenatal testing and a decision to end the pregnancy may also influence your responses. The loss of extended family through migration or other personal losses in your life may contribute to your grief. If the pregnancy was not planned, you may or may not have even come to terms with having a baby before he or she died.

This article was prepared using extracts from Stillbirth and Neonatal death1. The full text is available online or contact Red Nose Grief and Loss Services on 1300 308 307 for a printed version.


Last reviewed: 27/3/24