Thank you for your interest in addressing an important, yet overlooked, issue in our society. There are several things you can do to help break the silence of perinatal loss.
Talk, Ask, Listen.
Parents need permission to talk about their loss. First and foremost, we must let parents speak up. We can do this by asking questions and simply listening to those who have experienced perinatal loss. Talking about pregnancy and infant loss is heart breaking, uncomfortable, and sad beyond imagining. But that does not mean it’s something we can avoid talking about. I challenge you, if you know of someone who has experienced perinatal loss, either to miscarriage, stillbirth, or a life-limiting fetal condition, go ask them how they are doing and about their loss. Here’s an example of how to start the converstaion:
“I remember when you had your (miscarriage, stillbirth, infant death), it’s been about _______ ago. How are you doing? I’d like to hear about your baby and your experience if you would like to talk about him/her.”
Not everyone will want to talk the moment you approach them. It’s important to respect their needs.
Educate Yourself.
Ignorance about what perinatal loss means to parents and families is perhaps the biggest barrier to parents receiving the support they need. Learn about perinatal loss, what its, what it means, and how you can help. HERE are some helpful materials to better understand perinatal loss and how you can support parents. If you are a health care professional, HERE are some helpful resources.
Become Active.
Project Poppyseed offers multiple opportunities throughout the year to break the silence of perinatal loss. If you are interested in taking part in events, volunteering, or hosting events (such as educational, memorial, or advocacy events), please reach out and become an active participant in breaking the silence of perinatal loss.