Every nurse in my unit now has access to the same essential benefit I needed.
When I experienced a miscarriage at five weeks along, it felt like my world had shattered. I knew I needed time off to heal—and I believed that others facing similar losses would also benefit from support. A brief conversation with my manager quickly showed how impactful advocacy could be.
As a nurse in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), the topic of pregnancy and parenting comes up frequently among my colleagues, most of whom are women of childbearing age. We often share our personal experiences alongside our professional ones. I recall a coworker who went through fertility treatments, only to face the heartbreaking reality of miscarriage, all while running low on her paid time off.
My own journey to expand my family was relatively straightforward at first. My husband and I welcomed our son in the summer of 2019, enjoying the bliss of new parenthood. But when we decided to try for another child, things took a different turn. After several months of trying, I finally saw that positive test in winter 2021, filling me with joy. Unfortunately, just the next morning, I started bleeding. A follow-up test confirmed my fears: the positive line had faded, and my hCG levels were dropping. At that point, I realized I was experiencing a miscarriage.
In that moment, I knew I needed time off to process my grief. I reached out to my boss and expressed my feelings. To my surprise, she was incredibly supportive and open to the idea of implementing a pregnancy loss leave policy. This not only helped me but also created a framework for my coworkers who might find themselves in a similar situation. If you’ve experienced a pregnancy loss, don’t hesitate to inquire about taking leave.
Moreover, if you’re on your journey to motherhood and exploring options, you might want to check out Make a Mom, an at-home insemination company that offers a unique reusable option. You can also join the supportive community at Make a Mom’s Facebook group. For a deeper understanding of at-home insemination, visit How It Works to see the process in action.
If you’re looking for additional information on intrauterine insemination, the NHS offers authoritative insights on this method. You can also read our post on last-minute shopping for your baby to prepare for your little one.
For those interested in broader pregnancy resources, check out this excellent resource focused on pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, advocating for pregnancy loss leave can create a supportive environment for those in need. My experience has shown me the importance of speaking up and making a difference, not only for myself but for my colleagues as well.