Resources & Support
Information, guidance, and support for women and families experiencing early pregnancy loss.
If you're experiencing pregnancy loss, we want you to know that you're not alone. This difficult journey impacts many women and families, and while everyone's experience is unique, having access to information and support can help.
We've compiled these resources to help you understand what you might experience physically and emotionally, the choices available to you, and where to find support when you need it.
Please remember that this information is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalised guidance regarding your specific situation.
Understanding Early Pregnancy Loss
What is Early Pregnancy Loss?
Early pregnancy loss, also known as miscarriage, is the loss of pregnancy up to 20 weeks gestation and can happen in first or second trimester. It is a common occurrence, affecting about 10-20% of known pregnancies.
Most early pregnancy losses happen because the fetus isn't developing normally, often due to chromosome problems. These problems aren't usually related to the mother's or father's health.
It's important to know that early pregnancy loss is rarely caused by something the mother did or didn't do. Everyday activities, exercise, sexual intercourse, or minor falls do not cause miscarriage.
Signs and Symptoms
The most common signs of early pregnancy loss include:
- Vaginal bleeding, which may range from light spotting to heavy bleeding
- Cramping and pain in your lower abdomen
- Passing tissue or clot-like material
- Disappearance of pregnancy symptoms (such as nausea or breast tenderness)
Note: If you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding (soaking through more than one pad per hour), fever, or other concerning symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
Treatment Options
When early pregnancy loss is diagnosed, there are typically three management options available. Your healthcare provider will discuss these options with you and help you decide what's best for your situation.
Allowing the miscarriage to happen naturally without medical intervention. This may take days or weeks. Our Soul Collection Kit can provide support during this process.
Using medication to help the body pass the pregnancy tissue. This typically causes cramping and bleeding within a few hours to days. Our Soul Collection Kit can be useful during this process.
A procedure called dilation and curettage (D&C) to remove pregnancy tissue from the uterus. This is typically performed as an outpatient procedure.
The Soul Collection Kit is specifically designed to support women who have chosen expectant management or medical management for their early pregnancy loss.
Support Organisations
The Pink Elephants Support Network provides resources and community for women experiencing early pregnancy loss and miscarriage.
Pregnancy Counselling Link offers free, confidential counseling services for women and families experiencing pregnancy loss.
SANDS provides support, information, and education to anyone affected by the death of a baby before, during, or shortly after birth.
Bears of Hope provides support for families who experience the loss of a baby during pregnancy, birth, and infancy.
COPE provides evidence-based information and resources for mental health and wellbeing during pregnancy and early parenthood, including support for pregnancy loss.
The Gidget Foundation provides emotional support for expectant and new parents, including those experiencing pregnancy loss and perinatal anxiety and depression.
Helplines & Immediate Support
Lifeline
13 11 14
24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention
PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia)
1300 726 306
Mon-Fri, 9am-7:30pm AEST
For When Helpline
1800 FOR WHEN (1800 367 943)
Support for pregnancy and infant loss
forwhenhelpline.org.auTaking care of yourself is essential during this difficult time. Here are some self-care strategies:
- Allow yourself to grieve and express your emotions
- Accept support from loved ones
- Join a support group
- Consider professional counseling
- Take time for physical healing
- Practice gentle self-compassion
Helpful Guides & Downloads
Information on what to expect physically after pregnancy loss and how to take care of your body.
Understanding grief after pregnancy loss and strategies for emotional healing.
Resources for partners on how to provide support and cope with their own grief.