What It Means for You

Dear Mama,

My heart aches for you. A stillbirth occurs when a baby passes away after 20 weeks of pregnancy but before or during delivery. This is one of the most painful experiences a mother can face, and I want to offer you some comfort in your healing journey.

What Is a Stillbirth?

A stillbirth is the loss of a baby after the 20th week of pregnancy, up until the moment of delivery. This is a deeply painful and sorrowful loss for both you and your family, and it can happen for a variety of reasons. It’s crucial to seek medical advice to understand the cause of the stillbirth and ensure your health moving forward.

How Is It Diagnosed?

Stillbirth is diagnosed when your healthcare provider can no longer detect a fetal heartbeat. They may:

• Perform an ultrasound to confirm that the baby has passed
• Test for possible causes of the stillbirth, such as infection, placental problems, or umbilical cord issues
• Review your pregnancy history to identify potential risk factors

Once a stillbirth is confirmed, your healthcare provider will help guide you through the process of delivery and offer emotional support.

How to Care for Yourself

Experiencing a stillbirth is a devastating loss. It’s important to take time for physical and emotional healing:

• Allow yourself to grieve and process the loss in your own way.
• Speak with a therapist or counselor who specializes in pregnancy loss.
• Reach out to a doula for emotional support during this challenging time.

You’ve experienced a deep loss, and it’s okay to take time to heal. You are worthy of support, comfort, and love during this time.