Pregnancy and Infant Loss Bill of Rights

by Rachel Whalen

1.  You have the right to talk about your baby.

2.  You have the right to feel however you’re feeling.  Your emotions are valid.

3.  You have the right to share your story or not.

4.  You have the right to reject platitudes and anything else that does not bring you comfort.

5.  You have the right to remember your baby and you get to decide what that looks like.

6.  You have the right to ask for help even if you aren’t sure what you need.

7.  You have the right to say exactly what you need and to expect others to respect this.

8.  You have the right to have your loss considered and your child remembered by those who love you.

9.  You have the right to embrace your grief and to reject any imposed timelines–carry it forever.

10.  You have the right to change your mind and your perspective at any time.

11.  You have the right to grieve regardless of when or how you lost your baby.