October is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. This honors babies lost to miscarriage, stillbirth, infant death and provides support to grieving families.
A pregnancy loss may occur before or during birth because of miscarriage, stillbirth, or other complications. Infant deaths may occur due to prematurity, birth defects, or other serious health conditions.
Statistics:
- About 1 in 4 pregnancies end in miscarriage.
- In the United States, approximately 20,000 babies die each year from causes including birth defects, preterm birth and sudden infant death syndrome.
Understandably, many emotions may arise for the individual experiencing a loss, as well as their family and loved ones. Seeking support is essential!
What services do you provide at Horizon?
Horizon provides Perinatal Services for individuals who are pregnant, postpartum, and those who have experienced a pregnancy or infant loss. Additionally, we provide services for family members and loved ones who are impacted. Using a trauma-informed approach, our trained perinatal counselors help patients process their grief, find support, and build healthy coping skills.
Who should connect with these services?
Anyone who is impacted Pregnancy or infant loss can impact the family system, including partners, grandparents, aunts/uncles, and other children. We can offer clinical support to all individuals, including children, through our Child and Adolescent Services. Everyone copes with grief differently and may be at different stages in their grieving process. We are here to support you when you are ready.
How can I or a loved one connect with services?
Interested patients can call our Patient Engagement Center at 716-831-1800 and ask to be linked to a perinatal specialist. Patients are also welcomed and encouraged to have loved ones attend collateral sessions to explore and discuss ways to best support the patient and one another.
What are some ways I can honor my baby whom I have lost?
Families who experience loss can find great meaning in remembrance ceremonies, rituals or memorials. Ideas could include writing a song/poem/letter to or about your baby, using baby’s name when talking about baby, having a spiritual/religious ceremony, making a memory box, planting a tree in baby’s honor, wearing memorial jewelry and so much more.
Additional Resources:
- Western New York Perinatal Bereavement Network, Inc.
- Postpartum Support International
- March of Dimes
- Return to Zero: H.O.P.E
- Guys and Grief Podcast
If you or a loved one needs support during this difficult time, Horizon is here to help. Call us at 716-831-1800 or request an appointment online to connect today.