The month of October is recognized as Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Month, which was established in 1988(1). This observance is dedicated to honoring infant loss through stillbirths, miscarriages, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), and other forms of infant mortality. It raises awareness of the significant emotional, psychological, and physical toll that often comes with infant loss. Additionally, it encourages open communication regarding grief and adequate access to different forms of support.
Unfortunately, infant mortality is more common than some realize, as an estimated 10% to 20% of pregnancies result in miscarriages, and about 24,000 infants die before their first birthday every year1. Although anyone can experience a pregnancy loss, the risk of suffering a miscarriage increases with age. For example, a mother in her 20’s has a miscarriage risk of approximately 10%, whereas the risk increases to 35% or more by the time a mother reaches her 40’s(2).
Beyond the physical experience, pregnancy and infant loss can have negative effects on emotional and mental wellbeing. Many parents experience intense grief, anxiety, feelings of isolation, and symptoms of depression following a loss. For some individuals, these emotions can contribute to or worsen postpartum depression (PPD). While postpartum depression is often associated with caring for a newborn, it can also affect individuals who have experienced miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant loss. The combination of hormonal changes, grief, and unmet expectations surrounding parenthood can create significant emotional challenges that require support, understanding, and professional care.
Unfortunately, parents coping with pregnancy or infant loss may feel overlooked because their grief is not always openly discussed. Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Month aims to break this silence by creating opportunities for education, remembrance, and healing. By encouraging open conversations about loss and mental health, communities can help reduce the stigma associated with both grief and postpartum depression, which makes it easier for families to get the support they need.
DePaul’s Infant Empowerment and Education Program (DIEEP) provides education, resources, and support that help families navigate pregnancy, childbirth, infant care, and maternal wellness. Through community outreach, health education, and connections to supportive services, the program helps build a stronger network of care for mothers and caregivers, including those who may be struggling with grief, emotional distress, or postpartum mental health concerns. DIEEP plays an important role in fostering community cohesiveness by connecting parents with trusted healthcare professionals, community resources, and peer support opportunities. These connections can help reduce feelings of isolation and ensure that parents know that they don’t have to navigate tough experiences like these alone. Whether a family is welcoming a new baby, coping with a complicated pregnancy, or grieving a loss, having access to a supportive community can make a difference in the grieving and healing process. To learn more about DIEEP and what we do for the maternal health community, please click here.
Sources:
Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month and Postpartum Depression - PostpartumDepression.org
Miscarriage and Pregnancy Loss Statistics: Key Facts (2026) | Phoenix Health
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