Rainbow Pregnancies
“It is understood that the beauty of a rainbow does not negate the ravages of any storm. When a rainbow appears, it does not mean that the storm never happened or that we are not still dealing with its aftermath. It means that something beautiful and full of light has appeared in the midst of the darkness and clouds. Storm clouds may still hover, but the rainbow provides a counterbalance of colour, energy and hope.”
Navigating Pregnancy After a Previous Loss
Experiencing a pregnancy following a previous loss or death of a baby is an emotional journey. The anticipation of a new life is interwoven with the grief and fear from the past. We hope this section can honour the profound impact of such a pregnancy and highlight the importance of seeking support during this time.
Common Feelings
We understand how difficult it must be to imagine this baby coming home. It’s normal not to want to attend antenatal classes or prepare for caring for your baby such as buying outfits. This can effect bonding when baby arrives so it’s important to discuss this pregnancy with your maternity team.
Remember – if you’re ever feeling anxious and need reassurance – you can visit your local maternity unit for assessment.
The Emotional Impact
After a pregnancy loss, it is natural to approach a subsequent pregnancy with a mix of hope and apprehension. The mental torment and worry can be overwhelming, often overshadowing the joy that typically accompanies pregnancy. Many individuals find themselves juggling between focusing on the new pregnancy and managing the lingering grief from their loss. It is common to:
- Experience Intense Anxiety: Fear of another loss can dominate your thoughts, making it difficult to stay positive.
- Avoid Attachment: To protect themselves from potential heartbreak, many avoid making connections with the baby. They might refrain from attending antenatal classes or sharing the news with others.
- Feel Isolated: Not sharing the news can lead to a sense of isolation, as you may not receive the excitement and support from others. You may not want to join pregnancy groups as you feel different to other women or parents in the group.
Telling Others
Deciding when and how to share the news of your pregnancy can be challenging. The fear of others’ excitement may add pressure and anxiety. It’s crucial to communicate at your own pace and comfort level, and to surround yourself with understanding and supportive people. They may not know what to say or could say something that you may feel is insensitive. Be honest with them, those who are about you will want to do what is right for you.
Seeking Support
Recognising that these feelings are normal is the first step in managing them. It’s essential to access support during this pregnancy. Consider the following:
- Talk to Friends and Family: Sharing your feelings with trusted loved ones can provide emotional relief and support.
- Connect with Others Who Have Had Similar Experiences: Finding support groups or communities of people who have gone through similar experiences can offer comfort and understanding.
- Seek Professional Mental Health Support: Counselling or therapy can provide strategies to manage anxiety and grief, helping you navigate this pregnancy more positively. Our Maternity Directory can help you find support in your area.
Finding Hope
Listening to positive stories of pregnancy following a loss can be incredibly reassuring. Many people have gone through similar journeys. These stories can provide hope and a reminder that it is possible to have a positive outcome. You can read some positive stories at The Positive Birth Company and Willow’s Rainbow Box.
Held In Our Heart Notelets
Beautiful notelet cards developed by Loughborough University, which are writing prompts to record memories and thoughts about your baby.
Our Rainbow Pregnancy Helpline
MAMA Academy’s free helpline is available for expectant parents who have sadly experienced a previous pregnancy loss.
We understand that a new pregnancy, and accessing maternity care can be a difficult and anxious time. It can be really normal to feel a range of emotions, and at times feel uncertain of the road ahead.
Our midwife can offer regular support by providing a friendly ear, and opportunity to talk through feelings and concerns.
Just call 0203 6428 121. Leave a message with a convenient time to call back and our midwife, Kate, will soon get in touch.
Please note – we can’t give any medical advice so please call your midwife GP straight away if you have any medical concerns.
Our Rainbow Range
Available via our web store. Only a few items remaining so hurry whilst stocks last!
RAINBOW PREGNANCY SUPPORT BUNDLE:
This bundle supports you through your pregnancy after loss as well as once your baby arrives.
It contains educational videos on the somatic and nervous system impact of stress and trauma with regulation techniques to help you manage anxiety and worry throughout your pregnancy and postpartum.
It contains women’s health physio talks and trauma informed Yoga and Pilates to help you to heal and rebuild your strength as well as reconnect to your body following birth.
It includes Matrescence and coaching videos as well as journaling prompts and guided meditations to help nourish your emotional wellbeing.
And finally, we have a section with our recommendations of books, podcasts, organisations, and products which may be supportive as well as our private online community to help you to connect with others.
