Miscarriage Care to Change to Tackle 'Final Taboo'

Summary:

• An independent review in England has led to government commitments to improve miscarriage care, including better ways to handle remains with dignity, a voluntary certificate for parents who suffer a miscarriage before 24 weeks, and access to 24-7 care.
• The review aims to put dignity back into the process of handling early pregnancy losses, addressing the prevailing clinical approach by healthcare staff.
• Campaigners, including musician Mylene Klass, have played a significant role in advocating for change to miscarriage laws and promoting awareness of the emotional toll of such losses.

Kindness, compassion, information, and dignity. These are the crucial elements that hundreds of thousands of women need every year after experiencing the loss of a baby during pregnancy. However, many of them often find themselves deprived of such care. A recent independent review in England has brought government commitments to improve miscarriage care, addressing the final taboo in women's health.

The review highlighted the need for better ways to handle remains with dignity, including improved collection and storage procedures. One of the significant recommendations is the introduction of a voluntary certificate for parents who suffer a miscarriage before 24 weeks. This certificate would recognize their loss and offer support during their grieving process. Another crucial aspect is ensuring access to 24-7 care for those in need, acknowledging the emotional toll that such an experience can have on a woman's mental well-being.

Although the changes to miscarriage care won't happen overnight, the recognition of a life lost and the focus on dignity in handling such losses mark a positive step forward. With these government commitments and the efforts of campaigners, there is hope for a more compassionate and supportive environment for women who experience miscarriages.