Navigating Baby Loss: Gentle Support for the Early Days of Grief

If You’ve Found Your Way Here

It likely means you’ve experienced the loss of your baby—or you’re supporting someone who has. First, we want to say we are so sorry. Grief can feel overwhelming, isolating, confusing, or even numb. However you’re feeling right now is exactly how you should be feeling. There’s no right or wrong way to grieve, and no single path through it.

Whether your loss was recent or still feels recent, whether it was expected or sudden, your experience matters. And while nothing can take away the pain, knowing you’re not alone can make a difference.

In the Early Days After the Loss of Your Baby

We are so sorry you are here under such heartbreaking circumstances. Right now, you may be trying to come to terms with the devastating loss of your baby—and that can feel overwhelming, surreal, and deeply painful. As bereaved parents ourselves, we understand just how profound and disorienting this time can be.

In the days, weeks, and months ahead, please know this: you are not alone. Support is available, and when you feel ready, we would be honoured to walk alongside you. Whether you need someone to listen, information to help you understand what you’re going through, or connection with others who have lived through similar losses—we are here.

Many parents have found comfort in meeting others who have experienced the loss of a baby. While everyone’s grief is unique, there is a quiet strength in shared understanding. Hearing how others have coped can offer small moments of hope when everything feels impossible.

What You Might Be Feeling

Grief affects not just the heart, but the body and mind too. In these early days, it’s common to feel physically and emotionally exhausted. You may notice:

• Difficulty concentrating or remembering things
• A heavy feeling in your chest
• Deep, sighing breaths or shortness of breath
• Palpitations or “butterflies” in your stomach
• Aching arms, loss of appetite, or disrupted sleep
• Bad dreams or nightmares

If your doctor has ruled out more serious health concerns, please be reassured that these symptoms are a natural part of grief. They may be frightening or confusing, but they are temporary and will ease in time.

Emotionally, you may move through many different feelings—shock, anger, guilt, sadness, confusion, even moments of numbness or peace. These emotions may come in waves, without warning, and in no particular order. Some days might feel more manageable; others may be incredibly hard. All of this is part of the grieving process, and everything you feel is valid.

Gentle Advice from Other Bereaved Parents

• Talk about your baby. Sharing your thoughts and feelings can help. Avoiding them can make grief feel even more isolating.
• Understand that grief is individual. You and your partner may express your sorrow in very different ways—and that’s okay.
• Take your time. If possible, delay big decisions like changing jobs or moving house until you feel more grounded.
• Write it down. Keeping a journal can be a helpful outlet for your emotions.
• Support your other children. It’s okay for them to see you feeling sad. Reassure them that they are loved, and talk to them openly about their sibling in a way that feels right for your family.

Above all, be gentle with yourself. There is no “right” way to grieve. You are doing the best you can—and that is enough.

When You’re Ready, We’re Here

We know this journey is incredibly hard. When you feel ready, we’re here to support you in whatever way you need. Whether it’s through conversation, resources, or connection with others, you are not alone.