Navigating parenting after a loss due to fetal and neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia (FNAIT) can be extremely challenging. You may be experiencing a complex combination of emotions, including fear, confusion and anger. And, even though FNAIT is caused by immune incompatibility and isn’t the parents’ fault, it’s normal to struggle with feelings of guilt.
There are many resources available to help support your relationships, manage anxiety regarding future pregnancies and maintain existing parental responsibilities following pregnancy loss.
Consider different forms of therapy
Many people greatly benefit from therapy after pregnancy loss, as it can help them process their emotions and develop strategies for confronting those feelings. Some may prefer individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy or a combination of the three.
Individual therapy
Individual therapy involves one-on-one conversations with a mental health professional. One type of therapy that may be useful in this situation is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which focuses on rewiring your thought processes to find healthier coping strategies. CBT places an emphasis on applying the skills gained during therapy sessions in your everyday life.
Couples therapy
Loss can place significant strain on your relationship, and couples therapy can help you and your partner work through your grief together in a productive and safe environment.
Family therapy
If you have children who you would like to include in the healing process, family therapy might be a good option for you. Siblings who are facing challenging emotions of their own may benefit from having an outlet to discuss their thoughts openly.
Read more about FNAIT prognosis
Join a support group
There are many support groups that you can join to help navigate parenting after pregnancy loss with individuals who have had similar experiences. These include both online and in-person communities. Some examples of organizations with support groups include:
Countless support groups can be found on social media as well.
Communicate with your other children
If you already have children, you may be wondering how to broach the topic of pregnancy loss with them, especially if they are younger. Depending on their age, you should try to be honest with them and be open about your own feelings, which can help them better understand their emotions. For some children, art can be a useful outlet for emotional healing, whether in the form of drawing, writing or making music.
Practice self-care
Make sure to take the time to prioritize your own well-being after pregnancy loss. Experiencing loss is not just emotionally but also physically taxing. Although it can be hard, try to be gentle with yourself and carve time out of your day to relax and do things you enjoy.
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