October marks Pregnancy, Infant, and Child Loss Awareness Month. This is an important time to make space for the profound grief carried by millions of families worldwide. For mothers, this is a time to honor the memory of a life gone too soon. It is a time to recognize that even a journey into motherhood complicated by loss is valid and deserving of support.
At Hygeia Health, we believe in supporting every aspect of the maternal journey, including the most difficult paths. Loss is deeply personal, but no mother should walk the healing road alone.
October 15: Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day
In the United States, 1 out of every 4 pregnancies ends in miscarriage and 1 and every 160 pregnancies end in stillbirth. That makes for thousands of mothers and families affected by such tragedies every year. Those numbers don’t even include infant death from preterm labor, diagnosis of life-limiting conditions, or SIDS. It’s a heartbreaking reality but not one that should be looked past.
In 1988, President Ronald Reagan declared October to be Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. Today October 15 is a special day of remembrance as well. Many will join across the globe for the what is known as the Wave of Light. Participants share stories and create this wave, lighting candles around the world, symbolizing that these losses are not endured alone. At 7 p.m. your local time, we encourage you to light a candle. Keep it lit for one hour, as the wave of light passes throughout the world.
Ways to Participate and Support Mothers
These types of losses in motherhood impact everyone; even if you haven’t experienced the heartbreak firsthand, you know someone who has. Participating in the International Wave of Light is simply one way to support the awareness and give moms the confidence to know they do not suffer alone.
During October, moms are encouraged to share their baby’s story on social media using the #BecauseOfYouMyChild hashtag. Tag @pregnancyafterlosssupport on Instagram if you would like your story to potentially be shared to comfort other mothers.
The Pregnancy After Loss Support site also offers a #BecauseOfYouMyChild frame. This can be added to a favorite photo and posted to your social media feeds. Additionally, you can download PALS’ “footprints on my heart” graphics to share on social media, your blog, or website.
You can also make a donation to Pregnancy After Loss Support (PALS) in memory of a baby who has passed, and help keep PALS’ services and resources free for moms who are traveling the journey of pregnancy after loss.
The Physical Reality of Loss and Lactation
For mothers who continue their pumping journey, whether for current needs or in preparation for a subsequent pregnancy, we stand with you. We recognize that the anxiety and uncertainty of a pregnancy after loss can be immense. Focusing on preparation, like securing the best tools, offers a sense of control and hope during the healing journey.
Hygeia’s commitment goes beyond simply manufacturing equipment. It is rooted in recognizing the unique needs of every family. Part of effective loss support involves removing obstacles that add stress to the grieving process. High-quality lactation equipment should not be a financial burden. We aim to ensure that every mother who needs a breast pump—for any reason, at any stage of her journey—can access one easily.
If having a pump will relieve one aspect of the stress of your loss, we are here for you. Apply today to let Hygeia assist in getting your high quality breast pump covered 100% by your insurance.
This Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, we honor the love that endures. We are dedicated to supporting your mental health and physical needs by providing the resources required for your unique journey. You are not alone.