Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month
October is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, a time dedicated to honoring the babies who were lost too soon and supporting the families who continue to carry their memories. More specifically, October 15th is recognized as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day. Although pregnancy and infant loss are more common than many people realize, the grief surrounding these experiences remains unseen and misunderstood.
This October, our goal is to not only remember all of the babies who are no longer with us, but also to raise awareness regarding pregnancy and infant loss. By bringing these conversations into the open, we can help ensure that grieving families feel heard, seen, and validated in their experiences.
Statistics
As mentioned earlier, pregnancy and infant loss are unfortunately much more common than society is aware of. According to research conducted, miscarriage affects about 10-20% of known pregnancies. This figure does not account for pregnancies lost before a person is aware they are pregnant.
Not only this, but about 21,000 babies are stillborn annually in the US. Infant Mortality remains a concern as well, with a reported rate of 5.5 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2024. These statistics account for rates that occur within the US, not worldwide, meaning, these rates are unfortunately higher nationally.
While these statistics help us understand the prevalence of pregnancy and infant loss, it is important to remember that every number represents a child who was deeply loved and a family whose life was forever changed.
Wave of Light
One meaningful way that families and communities honor babies who have passed is through the Wave of Light. The official observance of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day encourages people around the world to light a candle on October 15th at 7:00 PM local time and keep it burning for one hour.
As candles are lit across different time zones, a continuous "wave of light" circles the globe in remembrance of the babies who are no longer here. This simple yet powerful act serves as a reminder that although these lives were brief, they were meaningful and will never be forgotten.
What resources are available?
There are many resources available for grieving families, as well as opportunities for community members to become involved and offer support.
1. SHARE Pregnancy & Infant Loss Support
SHARE offers support groups, educational resources, and its annual SHARE Walk for Remembrance & Hope, held in locations across the country. For more information, visit:
Share Walk for Remembrance & Hope
2. Community Awareness Events
Many communities host events throughout the year to raise awareness and support families who have experienced loss. These may include remembrance walks, relay runs, candlelight vigils, educational programs, and support gatherings.
3. Postpartum Support International Helpline
Families coping with grief and emotional challenges related to pregnancy or infant loss can seek support through the Postpartum Support International Helpline at: 1-800-944-4773
4. The Yellow Butterfly Box
The Yellow Butterfly Box provides hope boxes and remembrance opportunities for families navigating pregnancy and infant loss.
5. Star Legacy Foundation
The Star Legacy Foundation offers education about stillbirth, prevention initiatives, bereavement support, and resources for families and healthcare providers.
Looking back
As it is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day, let us remember that behind every statistic is a deeply loved baby and a family whose life was forever changed. Loss during pregnancy or infancy can be an incredibly painful and isolating experience, and for many parents, grief does not disappear when the month ends. The hurt can be compounded when their stories are overlooked, minimized, or left unspoken.
Raising awareness is one way we can help break the silence surrounding pregnancy and infant loss. By listening, learning, and speaking openly about these experiences, we create space for grieving families to feel seen, supported and understood. We can also become involved through advocacy by supporting organizations that serve bereaved families.
Most importantly, we can honor these babies by remembering that every life, no matter how brief, matters. Through awareness, advocacy, and compassion, we can help create a community where no parent feels alone in their grief and where every baby’s memory is valued and cherished.
References
October 15th pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month neverbestill. Star Legacy Foundation. (n.d.). https://starlegacyfoundation.org/awareness-month/
Pregnancy and infant loss awareness. Remembering Our Babies. (n.d.). https://www.october15th.com/
Pregnancy and infant loss awareness - share pregnancy & infant loss support. Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness - Share Pregnancy & Infant Loss Support. (n.d.). https://nationalshare.org/about-2-2/pregnancy-and-infant-loss-awareness