FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is a miscarriage?

 

A miscarriage, (also known as a spontaneous abortion) is when the embryo (or fetus) is expelled from the uterus before it's able to live outside. Any spontaneous pregnancy loss that occurs during the first 20 weeks of a pregnancy is considered a miscarriage. Unfortunately, the majority of these losses occur before weeks 12-14. It is estimated that 1 in every 4 pregnancies will end in miscarriage, which is roughly 25% of all pregnancies. The heartbreaking reality is that this number could be even higher, since many women don't even KNOW that they are pregnant before their loss. 

Q. What is a stillbirth? 

 

A Stillbirth/Stillborn is the death of a baby after the 20th week of pregnancy, but before delivery.

Q. What is early infant loss?

 

Infant death may occur because of various reasons, whether a baby is a newborn or several months old. A common cause of loss among infants unexpectedly, is due to SIDS.

Q. Why do I feel like such a failure? Why do I feel so lost? Will this pain ever go away?

 

You may feel a sense of failure; however, please know that it was not anything that you did or didn't do. Miscarriage happens more often than you think. Unfortunately it's just not talked about, and for this reason, it can leave people feeling lost and alone. A Miscarriage is the DEATH of your baby, it's okay to grieve. You feel a loss, because you a mourning the loss of your child. There's no guide to follow when it comes to recovering from the pain. You won't forget about your loss, it's coping with the loss that you must embrace.

Q. How do I begin? Where do I start? How can I start the healing process?

 

You've taken the first step- you've reached out. Start by realizing that you are not alone. If you need support, know that Miscarriage Matters is ready to help. Join and get connected with a mentor today.

Q. How do I communicate with other survivors on your site?

 

We have several ways. The BEST way to get the most out of this experience is to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest. You will find constant communication in Facebook with our Miscarriage Matters group (for women) and our Miscarriage Matters 2 Men group (for fathers). We also have Miscarriage Matters en Espanol (for our Spanish speaking sisters of loss). These are great groups that provide you with the ability to have group comfort. We welcome you to share your feelings on our page or simply read some of the postings. As always, we simply ask that all communication remain respectful and free from profanity. Again, if you are in need of added support, we offer free mentoring for moms and dads. Above all, simply remember that you are NOT ALONE and your Miscarriage Matters.

Q. Is Miscarriage Matters, Inc. a non-profit organization?

 

Yes we are. Miscarriage Matters, Inc. is recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)3 public charity. All donations are tax-deductible. 

Q. Does Miscarriage Matters, Inc. pay salaries? 

 

No. Everyone (including our Founder) is a volunteer. No one is being financially compensated, everyone donates their time and talent with the combined goal of helping others.

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