Losing a pregnancy, how to cope.
What is a Miscarriage?
A miscarriage is the loss of a pregnancy during the first 20 weeks. It is a common experience, affecting about 1 in 4 pregnancies. You may wonder why it happened or how you could have prevented it, but a miscarriage is no one’s fault, and no one is to blame. There is nothing that could have been done to prevent a miscarriage.
Signs of a Miscarriage
- Severe cramps and abdominal pain.
- Vaginal bleeding with or without clots. Not all bleeding in early pregnancy leads to a miscarriage, but all bleeding does require assessment from a maternity care provider. About half of people who experience early light vaginal bleeding in pregnancy will go on to have a healthy pregnancy.
- Discharge of tissue from the vagina.
If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your maternity care provider immediately or go to the nearest emergency department. They may want you to complete bloodwork and/or an ultrasound.
Emotional Support
The emotional impact of a miscarriage can be profound and long-lasting. It is important to know that support from healthcare providers, counsellors, or support groups is available, if and when you feel ready. The emotional impacts of a miscarriage often last longer than the physical symptoms.
Helpful Links
- More information about Miscarriage in Health Link BC
Resources and Support
- Healthy Care Pregnancy Program provides pregnancy loss support for individuals who have a history of substance use at ANY point in their lives or are currently using (alcohol, drugs and cannabis).
- British Columbia Bereavement Helpline Call: 604-738-9950 or Toll Free 1-877-799-2223.
- Four Tides Hospice Society has one-to-one counselling available.
- The Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support Centre (Based in Calgary, AB) serves the loss community worldwide.
- Return to Zero: H.O.P.E. Supports those who have been touched by loss, including miscarriage, termination for medical reasons, stillbirth, infant or toddler death, loss through surrogacy and failed adoption.
Understanding Stillbirth
Stillbirth refers to the loss of a baby after 20 weeks of pregnancy.
The loss of a baby can bring intense, long-lasting feelings of grief, shock, and sadness. It is important to know that there are supports and resources available that can help you through this difficult time.
Helpful Links
- BC Women’s Hospital offers comprehensive resources for coping with stillbirth and newborn loss. After the loss of your baby (bcwomens.ca)
Resources and Support
- British Columbia Bereavement Helpline (bcbh.ca) Call: 604-738-9950 or Toll Free 1-877-799-2223.
- Four Tides Hospice Society has one-to-one counselling available.
- The Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support Centre (Based in Calgary, AB) serves the loss community worldwide.
- Return to Zero: H.O.P.E. Supports those who have been touched by loss, including miscarriage, termination for medical reasons, stillbirth, infant or toddler death, loss through surrogacy and failed adoption.
