Pregnancy & Baby Loss
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“Grief is like the ocean; it comes on waves ebbing and flowing.
Sometimes the water is calm, and sometimes it is overwhelming.
All we can do is learn to swim.”
Coping with Pregnancy & Baby Loss
Without warning, many families find themselves thrown unexpectedly into the chaos of pregnancy and baby loss. Whether a loss is in early pregnancy or at the very end of what appeared to be a straightforward, full term pregnancy, the grief may be overwhelming and shake both parents to their core.
Many people surrounding the family, including nurses, doctors and family members, may not acknowledge the full impact of an experience like this and very often make comments or give advice that further adds to the trauma. The other side of the scale is immediate friends and family who don’t know how to react or cope with the situation and so disappear from the grieving couples life when they most need support.
The truth about the loss of a pregnancy or baby at any stage is that it’s impact can be profound, and the taboo around this kind of loss leaves many families confused by the thoughts and emotions that may follow.
Many people, including healthcare providers, are not aware of the resources available to reduce the amount of trauma experienced.
Provided here are a number of options, including our Support Group based in Constantia, Cape Town.
One on One Support
Charise Drysden
Grief and Loss support for termination of pregnancy, miscarriage, stillbirth and infant death.
Please contact us for details
Other Groups
Get Involved
Support The Zoe Project which does important work in government maternity centres and provides birth companion training
Psychologist
Leanne van der Westhuizen
Clinical Psychologist specialising in fertility
021 671 1116