Who we support
United By Loss supports families affected by pregnancy loss at any stage, stillbirth, termination for medical reasons, and the death of a baby within the first 28 days of life.
Every loss is different, and every baby matters. If you’re not sure whether we’re the right place for you, please get in touch. We’ll always reply personally.
The words you might hear
Hospitals use specific terms depending on when a loss happens. Some parents find these words helpful; others find them hard. Use whatever words feel right for you and your baby.
Miscarriage
The loss of a pregnancy before 24 weeks. An early miscarriage happens in the first 12–13 weeks; a late miscarriage happens from around 14 weeks up to 24 weeks.
Ectopic pregnancy
When a pregnancy grows outside the womb, usually in a fallopian tube. Sadly the pregnancy cannot continue.
Molar pregnancy
When the placenta doesn’t develop properly, so the pregnancy cannot continue.
Termination for medical reasons (TFMR)
Ending a pregnancy because of a serious condition affecting the baby, or a risk to the mother’s health. This can happen at any stage of pregnancy.
Stillbirth
When a baby dies before or during birth, at or after 24 weeks of pregnancy.
Neonatal death
When a baby is born alive and dies within the first 28 days. This includes babies born before 24 weeks who showed signs of life. Deaths in the first week are sometimes called early neonatal deaths, and from day 7 to day 27 late neonatal deaths.
Perinatal death
A term hospitals use to cover stillbirth and deaths in the first week after birth.
If your loss is outside our support
We’re a small, local charity and we can’t support every family, but we never want anyone to feel turned away. These charities offer specialist support:
The Lullaby Trust
Families after the sudden, unexpected death of a baby or young child
Child Bereavement UK
Families after the death of a child of any age, including support for brothers and sisters
Not sure? Talk to us.
Whatever your loss, and however long ago it happened, you’re welcome to get in touch.