Having a baby is a unique experience that fills you with love, hope and anticipation. But with this joy comes fear. Miscarriages, the loss of the baby during birth or the death of the baby you wanted so much. What happens to mothers who suffer the pain of a miscarriage? How do they deal with the unbearable agony and sadness? What happens when they finally get pregnant again after such a loss? This is what it means to have a rainbow baby.
The symbolism of rainbows
A rainbow baby is a healthy baby born after a miscarriage, infant loss, stillbirth, or newborn death. A rainbow baby is the result of a rainbow pregnancy, which is sometimes accompanied by complicated emotions such as fear, relief and even guilt. Although the future rainbow baby brings joy to the parents, it is impossible to forget the previous loss. When the rainbow baby is born, the previous baby is often referred to as an "angel."
Why are rainbow babies called that?
The name "rainbow baby" comes from the idea of a rainbow appearing in the sky after a storm or a dark and chaotic time. Recently, the phrase has gained popularity on blogs and social media and represents optimism and healing. After a loss, the thought of the rainbow baby can provide comfort and hope.
Talk about the loss
Talking about how you feel after a loss can be comforting. You can communicate with your partner, family and friends. Don't hesitate to ask your doctor for a referral to a mental health professional or counselor who can help you during this difficult time.
It's important to take care of yourself and give yourself time to recover. Women who experience perinatal loss are more likely to experience postpartum depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, sadness, anxiety, and sleep disorders. Don't put too much pressure on yourself to heal or "get over it" on your own, and put aside worries like fear of childbirth. Instead, seek medical help and encourage your partner and family to be patient and loving enough.
Postpartum emotions
The feelings associated with the birth of a baby do not always end with the birth of the child. According to studies, 15-20% of women who have suffered a miscarriage experience despair or anxiety that can last up to three years. Others suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder as a result of a miscarriage. It is important that you plan for the duration of your grief. No child can replace a lost child, even if you initially focus more on the baby you just gave birth to. Sadness and loss can come unexpectedly, just as they do during pregnancy.
Healing
Healing does not mean forgetting the lost baby. Don't be afraid to keep your lost baby in your life, but do it in a way that is unique and meaningful to you. Creating new and wonderful rituals with your rainbow baby is also a unique way to remind you of his new and amazing existence.
