Postpartum period - **TRIGGER WARNING** baby loss

[NC9876543211]

Devastatingly I lost my baby last week at 26 weeks gestation and gave birth on Saturday. I'm not sure if this is relevant but thought it worth mentioning.

Two things:

1. Yesterday evening and today I've had mild-moderate cramps through the evening, like period pain but also ebbing and flowing like contractions - is this normal?

1. In this scenario, does anyone know when I can expect my normal cycle to return? I realise this will be different for everyone but on average... is there an average? After I gave birth to my daughter 2 years ago it took a while but I was breastfeeding, whereas this time of course I'm not.

Thanks

I’m so sorry about the loss of your baby. I lost my daughter at term 10 years ago.
My cycle returned 10 weeks later- but I know this can vary wildly.
I would guess the pains are after pains as your womb contracts back- but I would advise checking with someone medical. You should still be seen by the community midwife team, I think. Could they advise maybe?
Again, my deepest sympathies for the loss of your baby.

@NC9876543211 I'm so sorry for your loss. I have no advice as all my losses were first trimester but I wanted to send you virtual love and hugs, you've had an awful experience 💕

I’m sorry for your loss

I had a loss a few years ago at a slightly earlier gestation so I can share my perspective.

Yes the cramping is normal, the uterus is contracting after birth.

My period returned after about 6 weeks. After that I was back to my usual 30 day cycle (which was important so I could have more IVF).

There’s a Bereavement board on here if you want to talk some more about how you’re feeling.

I am so sorry for your loss. Life is so cruel.

The postpartum period after babyloss is such a lonely place. People can be very quick to gloss over the fact that you have given birth like any other mother.

I lost my little girl at 38 weeks due to a cord accident. It took a little over 11 weeks for my period to come back (my GP said at 12 weeks they run bloods and investigate). It was the most god-awful heavy period ever.

I found acupuncture helpful, particularly for my sleep.

Sending you so much love xxx

Thank you for your kind words everyone.

I'm so sorry to hear about your losses as well.

It is the hardest time I've ever been through and you're right, it feels very lonely. I don't think anyone who hasn't been through this quite understands the pain of giving birth to a sleeping baby.

Thank you for all your advice/insights.

I am desperate to get pregnant again and I really am fixated on being of becoming pregnant before the due date (which is not healthy, I know) - but the due date was end of January so I now think that won't be possible - which kind of helps me put it all into perspective and relax a little bit.