1 in 4 pregnancies end in loss, yet it's a topic often surrounded by silence. For families who have experienced this profound grief, the silence can feel isolating. World Pregnancy & Infant Loss Remembrance Day on October 15th honors these precious lives and breaks the silence.
Advanced Women's Care of Pittsburgh provides personalized prenatal and postpartum care. Our clinical experts provide care for all stages of a woman’s life. Schedule an appointment today.
Here are five meaningful ways to help raise awareness and support those who are grieving.
1. Participate in the International 'Wave of Light
One of the most powerful and visually moving traditions of this day is the international 'Wave of Light.' It's a simple yet profound gesture that connects people across the globe in a shared act of remembrance.
What is the Wave of Light?
At 7 PM on October 15, people worldwide light a candle for at least an hour, creating a continuous 'wave of light' across the globe. This tribute symbolizes the babies lost too soon.
How to Participate
Light a candle at 7 PM on October 15th from home. Share a photo on social media using #WaveOfLight and #PAILAwareness to show grieving families they're not alone and their children are remembered.
2. Start a Conversation and Share Your Story
Breaking the stigma around pregnancy and infant loss is crucial for healing and awareness. Openly discussing miscarriage, stillbirth, and infant death helps normalize the experience and reduces isolation. Sharing your story, if comfortable, can empower others. When starting these conversations, be sensitive. Simple phrases like, 'I'm thinking of you, how are you feeling?' or 'I remember your baby' can help. Listen without judgment and avoid unsolicited advice. Being present and willing to listen is often the most meaningful support.
3. Support Grieving Families in Your Community
Pregnancy & Infant Loss Remembrance Day is a perfect time to show you care, but support for grieving families should be ongoing. Offer practical help like meals or errands, and send thoughtful messages, remembering that grief has no timeline. Encourage families to connect with local resources like support groups or specialized counselors, aligning with comprehensive pregnancy care that prioritizes emotional well-being.
4. Use Social Media to Spread Awareness
Social media is a powerful platform for education and community building. You can use your voice to help spread awareness and share important information with your network.
Share Informative Content
Many people are unaware of how common pregnancy and infant loss is. Sharing statistics, infographics, and articles from reputable organizations can help educate your followers. This information helps build empathy and a greater understanding of what so many families endure.
Use Relevant Hashtags
To ensure your message reaches a wider audience, use relevant hashtags. This helps connect your post to the larger global conversation happening on October 15th. Consider using hashtags like #InfantLossAwarenessDay, #StillbirthAwareness, #MiscarriageAwareness, and #PregnancyAndInfantLossAwareness.
5. Donate to or Volunteer with a Relevant Organization
Supporting the organizations that work tirelessly to help bereaved families is another impactful way to contribute. Your time or donation can provide critical resources to those in need.
Support a Cause
Financial contributions help fund everything from medical research aimed at preventing loss to support services for families. Many organizations create memory boxes for hospitals, offer grief counseling, or advocate for better care standards. A donation of any size can make a real difference.
Give Your Time
If you are able to, volunteering with a local non-profit is a powerful way to show your support. Participating in or organizing a fundraising walk, run, or other community event also helps raise both funds and crucial awareness for the cause.
Find Compassionate Support in Pittsburgh
Whether you are lighting a candle, sharing a story, or supporting a friend, every action helps to honor lost lives and support the families who love and miss them. Advanced Women's Care of Pittsburgh is here to provide compassionate care and resources for women and families navigating the complexities of pregnancy and loss.
To find support for every stage of your journey, schedule an appointment with Advanced Women's Care of Pittsburgh. Our team is dedicated to providing expert prenatal, postpartum, and gynecological care.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is World Pregnancy & Infant Loss Remembrance Day?
Observed on October 15th, it honors babies lost during pregnancy or early infancy and raises awareness to break the silence around such losses.
How can I support a friend after a miscarriage?
Acknowledge their loss, listen without judgment, and avoid clichés. Say their baby's name, offer practical help, and check in regularly.
Where to find pregnancy loss support?
Check with your OB/GYN, local hospitals, or search online for support groups and resources in your area.
