- 1 in 4 women will experience the loss of a baby during pregnancy, delivery, or infancy.
- Approximately 1 in 160 pregnancies will result in stillbirth.
Every October, Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Month is celebrated to provide solace and support to families who have suffered the loss of a pregnancy or infant. At PREG, we extend our unwavering support to all individuals, including our patients and staff members, who have endured such devastating losses.
This month holds significant importance, as it fosters conversations, awareness, and acknowledgments concerning pregnancy and infant loss. While many recognize October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it’s crucial to note that it also honors Pregnancy and Infant Loss. During this month, the loss community comes together, providing hope and creating opportunities for families to feel seen and heard. If you’re a parent who has experienced loss, it’s understandable that you don’t need a designated month, day, or week to be reminded of your pain. The absence and heartbreak are felt every moment. However, this month serves as a reminder that others, too, are going through similar situations, and something that is so fundamental to your life is being discussed and conversed.
On October 15, PREG participated in the Wave of Light 2023. Every year on October 15, candles are lit to honor and remember all babies gone too soon, creating a Wave of light around the world. PREG shared a video of our lit candle to show our love and support. The Wave of Light is a simple, yet powerful gesture to express our support.
Going through a loss can be an isolating and lonely experience. At PREG, we understand the importance of standing by your side and letting you know that you are not alone in your heartbreak. Our staff members have faced similar struggles and know the heartbreak you’re facing. If you follow PREG on our social channels (@pregonline), you’ll find several posts featuring the personal stories of several staff members, including Dr. Kathryn Snow, Reproductive Endocrinologist and Infertility Specialist, Lindsay Polowczuk, Third Party ART Coordinator, Sharon Merck, Financial Counselor, and Adrianne Dodson, MLT. Each post is titled “You Are Not Alone,” and shares the stories of our staff members who have bravely opened up about their journeys.
To commemorate Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, PREG is hosting a special giveaway. PREG has purchased multiple items from Peak and Valley Bead’s Etsy shop. Three winners will receive a “Forget Me Not Flower Necklace” to wear in memory of their loss, and as a reminder that their loss is honored, their loss is not forgotten, their loss will always be remembered. One winner will receive a “1 in 4 Miscarriage Bar Necklace,” as a reminder that even though their hearts are heavy, they are not alone. One winner will receive a “Soon Bracelet,” as a reminder to never abandon hope, and one winner will receive a “Stillbirth Sympathy Bracelet,” to keep your precious baby close to your heart. Don’t miss out on the chance to win; the giveaway ends on October 31, and the winners will be announced on November 1st! If you want to participate in PREG’s giveaway, make sure to do so through Instagram (@pregonline).
Finally, we understand that this month can be challenging for many, as it may seem like there is no break from loss. Social media is flooded with posts for Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness, which can understandably add stress. If nothing else, the most important takeaway from this blog is that you are not alone. This was not your fault. You are a great parent. You’re doing the best you can. It’s ok to feel sad, anxious, angry, frustrated, and confused. It’s also okay if you don’t feel like doing anything at all.
Please know that PREG is here to support you every step of the way.
