Medical Social Work
Pregnancy loss — whether miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, molar pregnancy (a condition that causes the early placenta to develop into a mass of cysts), stillbirth, or early newborn death — is an event that can be extremely difficult and upsetting for the woman and those close to her. Reaction to the emotional pain varies. You may first experience a sense of shock and disbelief. Sadness, failure, anger, and self-blame often follow. Most often, feelings are mixed.
The important factor in coping with the loss is the opportunity to express your feelings and, in turn, receive an accepting, understanding response. This may occur between partners, with family, friends or with caregivers at Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC. Sometimes, it can be helpful to talk with a caring professional about pregnancy loss, its impact, and the grieving that follows.
Added support is available during and after your hospital stay. Magee provides individual and family consultation, information and referral. A discussion group for pregnancy loss patients and their support persons is held at Magee every other week.