Still Birth

  
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SANDs: Soon after your baby’s stillbirth or death

What needs to be done

There are some decisions you have to make and some things you are obliged to do. These include:

Looking Ahead

In those early stages, people around you can appreciate the stress are under; there is usually sympathy and understanding, offers of support and help. You may still be visited by health professionals or be going into hospital for checks and tests.

Though it can be hard to pick up with work and previous interests, because inside things are never the same again, it can be a relief to be distracted from thoughts of what has happened.

For other parents though this can be a particularly difficult phase. It can be painful to see everyone else carry on as before when you feel the world has changed forever. You may be under pressure from family, friends, or work, to ‘get over it’. This can be very painful and isolating.

Be kind to yourself. Don’t expect too much of yourself and don’t be disheartened if after a period of coping you suddenly feel low again. Grief is not linear and sometimes it is better to allow painful feelings to work through rather than fight them.

Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Society

SANDS National Helpline 020 7436 5881.