Things to consider
Keepsakes
Naming your baby and ceremonies
Autopsy/post mortem, tests and paperwork
Funeral arrangements
Going home
Emotional reactions to grief
Physical reactions to grief
The woman's body after birth
Your relationship
One baby dying with a multiple pregnancy
Older sibling/s and how to tell them
What to expect from your caregiver
Perinatal deaths in Australia
Support
A baby dying is undoubtedly one of the most devastating experiences a parent could ever have to face. The profound pain that follows can be intensely consuming and often misunderstood by family and friends. No parent wishes to hear, nor discover that their baby has died. It is difficult to even describe how parents may feel at that instant. Disbelief, shock, immense emotional pain, and feeling like their heart is breaking.
While many parents can barely function in these early days, amidst the surreal experience and the emotional turmoil, there are choices to be made. What is important though, is that even if parents are finding it difficult to make decisions or undertake arrangements, doing these things can help enormously with their grieving process.
If you are in this situation then, taking time to be with your feelings, talking with your partner, family, friends or your caregivers can give you support and direction at this time. Most hospitals have special staff (usually social workers) who are experienced in supporting parents after the death of their child, and who will provide the information that you need to help you make the appropriate choices you feel comfortable with.
Try not to allow relatives and friends to automatically make arrangements for you. It may be that they want to help, and that is OK if you accept it, but they should ask you first. If you are feeling unsure, just let them know that you will tell them if and when you need anything done.