Why The New Bereavement Leave Rules Could Change Everything for Families Facing Miscarriage

Have you heard the news? Bereavement leave is being extended to cover miscarriages before 24 weeks. If you’re on a fertility journey, whether through at-home insemination or other methods, this change might just feel like the lifeline you didn’t know you needed.

Let’s be honest—talking about miscarriage is still tough. The stigma, the silence, and the invisible weight it places on parents can be overwhelming. So, when the UK government recently announced that parents who experience pregnancy loss at any stage will now be entitled to leave from work, it was huge. According to the BBC article, this planned change is about acknowledging loss and giving parents the time and space to grieve—a small but significant step toward compassion in the workplace.

Why does this matter so much?

If you’re using at-home insemination kits like the ones from MakeAMom, you know the emotional rollercoaster all too well—from eagerly awaiting a hopeful test to facing disappointments. Making the decision to try at home is brave and empowering, but it also opens up a need for better emotional care and understanding.

Imagine receiving news of a miscarriage and still having to clock into work the next day? The grief can feel isolating, especially when people often don’t realize pregnancy loss affects so many.

So, how does extended bereavement leave connect with your at-home fertility journey?

• It validates your experience. You’re not “just” experiencing early pregnancy loss. Your grief is real, and you deserve support.
• It gives you time to heal mentally and physically. At-home insemination kits like MakeAMom’s CryoBaby, Impregnator, or BabyMaker offer hope, but it’s essential to acknowledge setbacks and allow yourself space.
• It encourages open conversations. The more workplaces normalize bereavement leave for miscarriage, the more people feel safe sharing their stories and seeking help.

But what if you’re just starting out on your path to parenthood?

You might wonder how to prepare yourself emotionally for the ups and downs ahead. Here are a few thoughts:

• Educate yourself about what to expect with at-home insemination. Knowing the success rates (like MakeAMom’s reported 67% average) and the particular kits designed for different needs can give you confidence.
• Create a support system. Whether it’s partners, friends, online communities, or healthcare professionals, having people who understand your journey is crucial.
• Be kind to yourself. Fertility journeys are rarely linear. Embrace the moments of hope, but also honor your feelings when things don’t go as planned.

There’s another vital piece to this puzzle: privacy and comfort. One reason many choose at-home insemination with kits from MakeAMom is the discreet packaging and reusable designs, providing a stress-free experience away from clinical settings. This privacy can be a relief in difficult times, enabling you to focus on your journey without additional pressure.

Let’s bring this full circle.

Extending bereavement leave to cover miscarriages before 24 weeks isn’t just about time off work; it's about recognizing and respecting the profound emotional impact of pregnancy loss. It confirms that your grief matters and that society is starting to catch up with the help you need.

If you’re exploring at-home insemination, consider how emotional support and informed choices will shape your experience. Take a moment to explore resources like those offered at MakeAMom’s site. Their commitment to supporting individuals and couples with specialized insemination kits can be a great complement to your emotional well-being strategies.

To those walking this journey—whether you’re celebrating success or facing setbacks—remember, you are not alone.

Have you or someone you know been affected by changes in bereavement leave or miscarriages? How has your workplace handled these moments? Share your thoughts and stories below. Let’s open up the conversation and build the support we all deserve.

Together, we grow stronger.