The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing has launched a new miscarriage education and awareness program to help people in Australia better support those who have experienced miscarriage and early pregnancy loss. 

 “Miscarriage Matters” includes a number of resources to help raise awareness of miscarriage and aims to educate people in Australia on what to do or say to support someone. Suggestions for showing support include helping with chores, leaving a meal or flowers, and above all, being available to listen. 

Miscarriages are more common than people may think. Miscarriage Australia estimates that 1 in 4 confirmed pregnancies end in miscarriage. That means approximately 285 families in Australia are affected every day. 

While the data shows that many in the community experience early pregnancy loss, often it is a lonely experience – with cultural expectations, misconceptions, stigma and fear of being judged making it difficult for women to speak openly about their miscarriage. 

Dr Fatima El-Assaad, medical researcher, lived-experience advocate and founder of The Still Nest, says it is important for Arabic-speaking communities to create space for families affected by miscarriage to share their experiences openly and without judgement.

“In many Arabic-speaking communities, family and community connections are a source of strength during difficult times. However, pregnancy loss can still be a challenging topic to discuss openly. These resources developed by the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing provide a valuable tool for starting conversations and responding in ways that acknowledge the significance of the loss.”

The new resources provide guidance to help people feel more comfortable to have conversations about miscarriage, including providing information including what a miscarriage is and that it is not anyone’s fault. They aim to make space for conversation, understanding and compassion.

The resources also acknowledge that although it may be a difficult conversation to have, showing up and offering support is much more appreciated than saying nothing.

“Supporting someone after pregnancy loss can mean being present and creating a space where they feel comfortable sharing their experience without judgement. The most helpful response is to not minimise the loss, offer explanations or rush someone through their grief. Sometimes the greatest support we can offer is simply reminding someone that they are not alone and that their feelings are valid” continued Dr. El-Assaad.

Visit https://www.health.gov.au/miscarriage-matters to download today. If you or someone you care about has had a miscarriage, support is available. You are not alone.