Navigating Mother’s Day Following Miscarriage

Mother’s Day can be an emotional time for many, but especially for those who have experienced pregnancy loss. You may be grieving the children you never got to meet while surrounded by smiling photos of happy families. Know that you are not alone and that there are supportive communities ready to provide comfort.

Acknowledge Your Grief: Give yourself permission to honor your grief, even years later. There is no “correct” way or timeline. Do what feels right for you, whether that’s indulging in self-care, spending quiet time in nature, or visiting your child’s resting place. Surround yourself with understanding people who allow you to express emotions without judgement.

Set Boundaries: You may need to limit time with certain people or activities that tend to drain you. Communicate your needs clearly to those close to you. For example, mention that while you are happy for them, hearing detailed stories about pregnancies or new babies is difficult for you right now. Most will understand as long as you frame it kindly.

Seek Support: Connect with others going through similar losses, through in-person support groups or online communities. Share your experience and emotions without the need to explain or justify them. You may also consider working with someone who specializes in pregnancy loss or maternal mental health. They can help you process and identify healthy coping strategies.

Do Something Meaningful: Channel your grief into a constructive act, like volunteering, making memory art, or planting a tree. These gestures, big or small, can bring some light and purpose during darker times.

Be Gentle With Yourself: Mother’s Day may bring complex feelings - joy for the children you have, sorrow for those you’ve lost, guilt over struggling when you “should be grateful.” Give yourself grace to simply get through the day. Take breaks from social media and do little acts of self-care. You remain a mother, regardless of how briefly you carried your baby in your womb or arms - and you deserve compassion.

The path through grief has highs and lows, yet you don’t need to walk it alone. This Mother’s Day, and every day, take the space you need surround yourself with support. You and your children will always have a special place in this world.