In a previous Palo article, I shared my experience with recurrent pregnancy loss. As I experienced each loss, I was sad and felt an emptiness that I did not know how to explain. Once a pregnancy is confirmed, you envision your life with your little one and begin planning your future (in your head!). Never in a million years would I have imagined having to experience a situation like this. But little did I know that several women around me have been through a similar experience. Unfortunately, many women do not share their experiences for several reasons, such as feeling judged by others, not having clear answers of what caused the loss, thinking that something is wrong with them, fear of their experiences being minimized, etc.
According to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 10% of pregnancies end in loss, and 80% occur within the first trimester. Statistics have also shown that the older you are the higher the risk of pregnancy loss.
Women who experience pregnancy loss are at increased risk for anxiety disorders. It takes strength to acknowledge the loss and even more strength to try again. Women must also wait until their body “restarts” in order to begin the process of trying again. But once you become pregnant again that pain and fear does not magically disappear, and anxiety and depression can elevate. Depending on the timing of the loss it is recognized differently, but all losses should be honored. If you have experienced a loss, you are not alone! Below are some resources that can help you through your healing journey.
H. Aponte-Chimelis Counseling
484-509-1038
Licensed professional counselor in PA and certified in perinatal mental health
Group and individual services available
*Bilingual in Spanish
Postpartum Support International (PSI): www.postpartum.net/
Call: 1-800-944-4773, #1 Spanish, #2 English
Text in English: 800-944-4773
Text en Español: 971-420-0294
Maternal Mental Health Hotline
(24/7 Call or Text Support): 833-943-5746
Adalyn Rose Foundation: adalynrose.org/
484-509-1032
By: Hillary Aponte-Chimelis, LPC, PMH-C, R-PLC
Photo Credit: Baronial Designs Photography
