Q&A: Comforting a Loved One Who’s Had a Miscarriage?

As with anyone suffering a loss, your friend might not want to talk about it at first. And that’s okay — you can still be there as a silent comfort so that when she is ready, she’ll know she can tell you how she’s feeling. In the meantime, here are a few small tips for helping her through this time:

Stay considerate: Be careful with how you phrase your words of encouragement. Avoid saying things like, “You can always have another baby” or, “Maybe it was meant to be.” Instead, just stay focused on the present and let her know that she’ll get through this and that you’ll there for her as long as she needs you.

Lend a hand: You can do little things to ease her everyday life, like cook dinner or help out with errands — anything she might not feel up to doing right away.

Be supportive: You might be tempted to try to take her mind off of things, but remember to allow her the time she needs to grieve and heal. After the initial shock has worn off, you can start planning relaxing but fun activities to do with her, like seeing a movie or treating her to a spa day.