Why The New Bereavement Leave Policy Could Change How We Talk About Pregnancy Loss

Posted on 28 July 2025 by Priya Nair — 3 min

Have you ever thought about how society handles the silent grief of pregnancy loss? For many, miscarriage is a heartbreaking experience shrouded in silence, often leaving parents feeling isolated, misunderstood, and unsupported. But a recent development in the UK might just change that narrative—for the better.

In a groundbreaking move, the UK government plans to extend bereavement leave to include miscarriages that occur before 24 weeks of pregnancy. This means that parents who experience pregnancy loss at any stage will be entitled to time off work to grieve and heal. You can read more about this important change in this BBC article.

Why does this matter so much? Because until now, many parents, especially those who lost pregnancies early, often felt their grief was minimized or invisible. Society tends to expect people to 'move on' quickly, which isn't how grief works. Allowing bereavement leave at any stage acknowledges that the loss is real, painful, and deserving of respect.

As someone deeply invested in conception technologies and fertility journeys, I know firsthand that the path to parenthood can be filled with highs and lows. From the excitement of trying methods like at-home insemination kits to the raw pain of loss, the emotional rollercoaster is very real.

So, how can we support those experiencing loss, especially in a home-centered fertility context? Here are a few thoughts:

Creating safe spaces: Whether it's forums, support groups, or even candid conversations with loved ones, having a place to share without judgment can make all the difference.
Practical support: Offering resources for at-home fertility options that are designed with sensitivity in mind. For example, companies like MakeAMom provide insemination kits tailored to different fertility needs — from low motility sperm to users with conditions like vaginismus. Their discreet packaging and reusable kits also help reduce stress and add freedom for individuals and couples navigating conception privately.
Mental health awareness: Recognizing that grief from miscarriage or fertility struggles affects mental health is crucial. Bereavement leave policies are a step forward, but so is breaking down stigma surrounding these experiences.

What's truly inspiring about this policy change is how it reflects a broader shift toward empathy and inclusivity. It’s a recognition that fertility journeys aren’t just medical — they’re deeply personal, emotional experiences.

If you’re considering or currently using technologies like home insemination kits, it's important to remember that support goes beyond the science. It’s about honoring every part of your story — the wins, the setbacks, and the moments in between.

In fact, MakeAMom's website offers not only their innovative insemination products but also testimonials and resources that acknowledge the complexities of fertility journeys. Exploring these supports might be comforting if you're navigating uncertain or difficult times.

In the end, how we treat grief reflects how much we value life and hope. Extending bereavement leave is more than just a policy change—it's a societal acknowledgment of the profound love and loss that exists even before a baby arrives.

What do you think about this change? Have you or someone you know experienced the challenges of pregnancy loss or fertility struggles? How did you find support? Let's start a conversation—sometimes, sharing our stories is the first step toward healing.

Feel free to explore resources like MakeAMom’s thoughtful insemination solutions if you’re on your fertility journey and need options that fit your unique circumstances.

Because you don’t have to do this alone.