Friday, July 18, 2008

Joyously Anxious?

The process of decision- making that parents engage in when thinking about planning a subsequent pregnancy can be complicated. For some parents the issues surrounding a new pregnancy are clear cut and the decision is easily made. Sometimes if the reason for their babys death is clear, the decision may be relatively easy. However for others there can be many issues that need to be addressed.

For all parents however, there are some issues that can be discussed as an aide in the decision making process.
  • The spacing between the pregnancies is an important aspect to be thought about.
  • How much of the grief journey has been travelled before embarking on another pregnancy – for either parent? Are both parents in a place to manage a new pregnancy?
  • How is the mum physically? If the baby was born by caesarean section is the mum physically ready for another pregnancy?
  • If your baby had lived when were you planning on another baby?
  • How many children have you planned on having? Does that number include the baby who died?
  • If you have to conceive using reproductive technology are you both emotionally prepared to commence treatment?
  • Are there genetic factors that need to be investigated?
  • Was the previous pregnancy high risk and will those conditions be evident in another pregnancy?
  • What family/friend support can be relied upon in a new pregnancy? And after the new baby is born?
  • Are there financial matters that need consideration? Will mum need bed rest and be unable to work through the pregnancy?

How do you feel about attempting another pregnancy after the death of your baby?

If you have already experienced another pregnancy, please share any thoughts, feelings and strategies that helped you during your pregnancy.

How did your partner manage this time?