While miscarriage is relatively common in early pregnancy, the death of a baby later in pregnancy is fortunately much less so.
Sadly, babies can die right up to the date of delivery. Some babies will die during the birthing process and others may be born unwell and die very soon after the birth. Either way, the death of a baby is deeply distressing for parents, families and their carers. While there are many explanations as to why babies die, each individual circumstance is unique. Here we provide you with practical information that you may need to know after a baby dies. You may also need a great deal of emotional support at this time and we provide you with information about how others have managed their grief and organisations you can contact for more support.
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Learning why a baby has died
While there are many explanations as to why babies die, each individual circumstance is unique. Sometimes the cause is obvious but often an investigation is necessary to find out.
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Birth after a baby has died
It is very hard for women to give birth after a baby has died and very sad for everyone involved. A vaginal birth seems like the least palatable option but it has benefits for the mother and her future pregnancies.
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Legal information
Registering your baby's birth and receiving a birth certificate will usually depend on the baby's age of gestation when they were born. This will affect practical things relating to funeral arrangements.
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Creating memories
How parents would like to remember their baby is a personal choice based on what’s important to them and their family.
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Your health after your baby has died
There are physical issues to consider after you brith your baby, you will bleed, your breasts will change and, eventually, your mentrual cycle will begin again
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Grief after the death of a baby
Grief is such an individual thing. Everyone involved in your baby's birth will be grieving in some way, and in their own way
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Disclaimer
The Women’s does not accept any liability to any person for the information or advice (or use of such information or advice) which is provided on the Website or incorporated into it by reference. The Women’s provide this information on the understanding that all persons accessing it take responsibility for assessing its relevance and accuracy. Women are encouraged to discuss their health needs with a health practitioner. If you have concerns about your health, you should seek advice from your health care provider or if you require urgent care you should go to the nearest Emergency Dept.