Before I experienced a loss myself, I had no idea that October was Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. October is also the awareness month for domestic violence and breast cancer, so for those who haven’t experienced the loss of a pregnancy or child, this may all be new information to you. So what is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month about? We’re here to help.
What Is Pregnancy And Infant Loss Awareness Month?
If you have lost a child due to stillbirth, miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, SIDS, or any other cause of death during pregnancy or infancy, this month is for you.
In 1988, Ronald Regan declared October as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. In his speech, he stated:
“When a child loses his parent, they are called an orphan. When a spouse loses her or his partner, they are called a widow or widower. When parents lose their child, there isn’t a word to describe them.”
Ronald Regan (October 25th, 1988)
Unfortunately, 1 in 4 women have experienced pregnancy or infant loss. Statistics that are way to high in my opinion. And I am one of those women. After a year of marriage, I went through an ectopic pregnancy and was rushed into surgery, losing my baby in the process.
I cannot even begin to explain the emotions a mother goes through when losing a child. It is different for every single situation, but it doesn’t get any easier. It affects physical and mental health, and if you don’t have a support system in your life, it can cause you to spiral far worse than you could imagine.
I am very grateful and blessed to have two happy and healthy children now, but I know, for some, that happy ending doesn’t come. And to you, I truly say that I am sorry. If you know anyone who is suffering from infertility, or someone who is still processing through loss, please reach out. They will need support and love.
On October 15, at 7:00 p.m. in all times zones across the world, light a candle for all babies gone too soon. This is called the Wave of Light. You are welcome to partake in this remembrance, whether you are directly affected or not.
