Anxiety and Depression after stillbirth

It is normal and natural to feel sad and anxious after loss of a baby. This is a grief process and it may last a year or more. There is some evidence that falling pregnant again within a year of the loss can increase the risk of anxiety and depression, but this is individual and should always be discussed with health care professionals.

In the past, some women were strongly urged to see and hold their stillborn baby, even against their will. Recently, it has become clear that this is not always beneficial. Hospital staff would normally offer the grieving parents the opportunity to see and hold their baby, but if the parents decline this is respected.

Mementoes, such as photographs and handprints, are often taken and offered to parents. Some parents choose not to take these, others will wish for them. Hospitals will sometimes keep these items in case the parents later change their minds.