Losing a pregnancy can be one of the most isolating and painful experiences a person can go through. Yet, until recently, many faced this grief in silence, without the workplace support others might receive for a loss deemed “more visible.” On July 23, 2025, the UK government’s announcement to extend bereavement leave to parents who experience pregnancy loss before 24 weeks is a monumental step toward compassion and recognition.

You might be thinking, why does this really matter? What difference will a few days off work make? The truth is, this law acknowledges something deeply personal: pregnancy loss, no matter the stage, has profound emotional and physical impacts. It disrupts dreams, relationships, and can shake the very foundation of one’s mental health.

Why This Change Is So Important

According to the recent BBC article, parents who endure pregnancy loss—even before 24 weeks—will now be entitled to bereavement leave. For many, this validates their grief and offers much-needed time to process, heal, and lean on loved ones.

If you’ve been on a fertility journey, perhaps using at-home insemination kits or other methods, you know how emotionally charged every step can be. The highs of hope and the lows of disappointment are intense. Often, grief from miscarriage is surrounded by stigma and misunderstanding, making it harder to find support.

The Emotional Toll of Pregnancy Loss

Feelings of guilt, sadness, anger, and confusion swirl together. It’s not just about physical recovery; it’s about mourning a future that you envisioned. This emotional rollercoaster is why mental and emotional support is as vital as any medical intervention.

If you or someone you love is navigating this path, you’re not alone. Organizations like MakeAMom offer resources beyond just fertility solutions—they recognize that support extends into emotional and mental wellness. Their discreet, cost-effective at-home insemination kits (CryoBaby, Impregnator, and BabyMaker) help empower individuals and couples, but they also provide educational content that reminds users: your feelings are valid, and help is available.

How This New Leave Policy Can Help

• Time to Grieve: Grief doesn’t follow a schedule. With dedicated leave, parents can avoid the pressure to “just get back to work” and instead allow themselves space to heal.
• Mental Health Focus: Acknowledging loss openly helps reduce stigma and encourages seeking counseling or support groups.
• Workplace Compassion: When employers recognize the gravity of pregnancy loss, it fosters a more empathetic and understanding work culture.

This law shift doesn’t erase the pain, but it creates a foundation where healing is recognized as essential.

What Can You Do If You’re Facing This Challenge?

• Seek Support: Whether it’s talking to trusted friends, joining online communities, or consulting professionals, don’t isolate yourself.
• Explore Fertility Options: If you’re continuing on your journey, solutions like the MakeAMom kits offer a private and flexible way to take control of your path.
• Prioritize Mental Wellness: Consider mindfulness, therapy, or gentle exercise to nurture your mind and body.

Final Thoughts

This change in bereavement policy feels like a wake-up call to society: pregnancy loss is real loss, deserving of attention, empathy, and time. If you're in the trenches of this journey, take heart in the fact that you’re not invisible.

Have you or someone you know been affected by pregnancy loss? How do you feel this new leave law might change things? Share your thoughts below—we’re in this together.

For more information on supporting your fertility journey with practical, medically informed tools that honor your unique situation, check out MakeAMom’s collection of insemination kits. Because every journey deserves respect, care, and hope.