After Your Miscarriage

A partner’s grief

You and your partner may have different responses to the miscarriage. Your attachment to the growing baby may be different. One parent may begin bonding from the moment the pregnancy is confirmed. Another parent may not begin bonding until the pregnancy is further along, like after seeing an ultrasound or feeling the baby kick. For other parents, bonding may not happen until after the baby is born. The different timings of attachment can affect how a parent grieves.

Unfortunately, a partner’s grief may be missed. It can be hard to understand or relate to your partner in your grief. This is normal. Try not to judge each other’s reactions.

Remember, most partners feel excited about the pregnancy, too. A pregnancy loss can cause a loss of hope and the joy of becoming a new parent. This can make your partner feel:

sad
angry
helpless
a sense of failure
powerless

In some cases, feelings about a previous loss can resurface. As a partner, it’s OK to talk to others about how you feel, especially with your birthing partner.

Current as of: December 21, 2023

Author: Women’s Health, Alberta Health Services

Go to Top

This material is not a substitute for the advice of a qualified health professional. This material is intended for general information only and is provided on an "as is", "where is" basis. Although reasonable efforts were made to confirm the accuracy of the information, Alberta Health Services does not make any representation or warranty, express, implied or statutory, as to the accuracy, reliability, completeness, applicability or fitness for a particular purpose of such information. Alberta Health Services expressly disclaims all liability for the use of these materials, and for any claims, actions, demands or suits arising from such use.

Include ImagesLarge Print