1. Emotional Support: Offer compassionate and empathetic listening, validation of feelings, and a safe space for individuals and families to express their grief and emotions.
2. Guidance on Decision-Making: Provide information and support to help individuals and families make decisions regarding medical procedures, burial or cremation options, and memorial services.
3. Creating Memories: Assist in creating meaningful memories with the baby, such as taking photographs, making handprints or footprints, and creating keepsakes.
4. Navigating Healthcare System: Offer guidance and advocacy when interacting with healthcare providers, including assistance in understanding medical terminology and procedures.
5. Birth Planning: Help individuals and families create a birth plan that aligns with their wishes and preferences for labor and delivery in the case of stillbirth or pregnancy loss.
6. Postpartum Support: Provide support during the postpartum period, including assistance with physical recovery, coping with hormonal changes, and navigating the challenges of grief.
7. Coping Strategies: Offer coping strategies and resources for managing grief, including self-care techniques, support groups, and therapy referrals.
8. Sibling Support: Provide support and resources for siblings who are grieving the loss of a baby, including age-appropriate explanations and activities to help them understand and process their emotions.
9. Partner and Family Support: Offer support and resources for partners and family members who are also grieving, including communication strategies and ways to support each other through the grieving process.
10. Memorial Planning: Assist in planning memorial services or rituals to honor and remember the baby, including selecting readings, music, and symbols that hold personal significance.
11. Legal and Financial Guidance: Provide information and support regarding legal matters such as birth and death certificates, insurance claims, and financial assistance programs available to families experiencing loss.
12. Community Resources: Connect individuals and families with support groups, online forums, counseling services, and other community resources for ongoing support and healing.
13. Continued Support: Offer ongoing support and follow-up in the weeks and months following the loss, including checking in periodically and providing additional resources as needed.
14. Education and Awareness: Raise awareness about pregnancy and infant loss within the community, and advocate for improved support and resources for families experiencing loss.