Some topics are rarely discussed, no matter the culture. In Mexico, it’s common to hear "At the table, we don’t talk about politics, religion, or soccer," but the list of unspoken subjects goes far beyond that. One of them is pregnancy loss. The silence surrounding this experience can make it feel even more isolating, especially when loved ones don’t know how to address it—or choose to avoid it altogether.
Let's Talk About Pregnancy Loss
The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies pregnancy loss into two main categories:
🔹 Early pregnancy loss, which occurs before the 28th week of pregnancy.
🔹 Late pregnancy loss, which happens after that point.
According to March of Dimes, 10% to 15% of pregnancies end in early loss. Additionally, over two million late-stage pregnancies are lost every year. This means pregnancy loss is not rare—it affects millions of couples worldwide. And yet, many go through this grief in silence.
Understanding Pregnancy Loss
There isn’t a single cause. Factors such as gestational age, infections, or fetal abnormalities can contribute to pregnancy loss. While some cases are unavoidable, a healthy lifestyle can help reduce risks. Here are some key recommendations:
✔️ Maintaining a balanced diet
✔️ Engaging in appropriate physical activity
✔️ Managing stress levels
✔️ Avoiding alcohol, tobacco, and excessive caffeine
✔️ Attending regular medical check-ups throughout pregnancy
Ongoing medical care is essential to identify and address potential risks early on.
Recognizing the Warning Signs
If you’re supporting someone during pregnancy, be mindful of these warning signs:
🔹 Vaginal bleeding or spotting
🔹 Abdominal or lower back pain/cramps
🔹 Fever and chills
These symptoms may indicate complications. If any of them appear, seeking immediate medical attention is crucial.
Life After Pregnancy Loss
Guilt, sadness, and hopelessness are common emotions following a pregnancy loss. Yet, because it’s a difficult topic to discuss, many people avoid it—often leaving grieving parents feeling even more alone. This is why emotional support is so important.
If someone close to you is going through this experience:
💙 Avoid phrases like "everything happens for a reason," "at least you know you can get pregnant," or "at least you already have a child." While well-intentioned, these words can feel dismissive or even painful.
💙 Offer genuine support: Express your condolences, ask how they’re feeling, and remind them that you’re there for them. Sometimes, just being present is enough.
Professional support is also key. At Fertilidad Integral, we have fertility and mental health specialists who can provide medical and psychological guidance during this time.
📍 If you need more information or support, schedule a consultation with our team.
