Pregnancy Loss
Every form of pregnancy loss, such as miscarriage or stillbirth, carries its own unique circumstances — all of which can have big impacts on your emotional and physical wellbeing.
Pregnancy loss, including miscarriage or stillbirth, is a deeply personal experience that can affect your emotional and physical well-being in many ways. At VA, we are here to support you through your healing journey. Every pregnancy loss is unique, and its effects can be profound. You may encounter:
Emotional challenges:
- Grief, sadness, or feelings of emptiness
- Guilt, self-blame, or anger
- Anxiety, depression, or difficulty focusing
- Complex emotions that change day-to-day
Physical effects:
- Discomfort and the need for physical recovery
- Hormonal changes that can impact mood and energy levels
Relationship and social challenges:
- Struggles communicating with loved ones or partners
- Feeling isolated or misunderstood
- Balancing your loss while managing daily responsibilities
VA recognizes the complexity of pregnancy loss and provides compassionate care to help you navigate these challenges.
What services does VA provide for pregnancy loss?
Each loss is unique, so your VA health care team will work with you to identify a plan and treatment solutions that will best meet your needs. Some Veterans may be eligible for burial benefits for their dependents.
In addition, each VA facility has a Women Veterans Program Manager (WVPM) who can help you access reproductive mental health care.
VA also provides Maternity Care Coordinators who can help you:
- Understand your coverage and options
- Navigate health care services both inside and outside of VA
- Access care for your other physical and mental health needs
- Connect to community resources
- Answer questions about billing
Pregnancy loss and mental health
Pregnancy loss can cause considerable distress and present mental health challenges. VA offers a wide range of treatment options for reproductive mental health conditions, including treatment options for pregnancy loss.
How do I access services for pregnancy loss at VA?
If you're already enrolled in VA health care, reach out to your primary care provider to discuss your needs. They can guide you to appropriate resources, including mental health care or reproductive health services.
Every VA facility has a Women Veteran Program Manager (WVPM) who is specifically dedicated to helping you navigate your health care.
Additionally, you may contact the Women Veterans Call Center at 1-855-VA-WOMEN to learn more about your options or ask questions about care after your pregnancy loss.
If you don't already use VA health care, you may want to use the following online tools:
Find out if you are eligible for VA health care
Enroll in VA health care if you haven't already
Find your local VA and make an appointment
Women Veterans Health Care Videos
Watch videos for and about Women Veterans.Women Veterans Health Care Outreach Posters
View our Outreach Posters.The Women Veterans Call Center is your guide to women's health
If you have questions or can't find what you're looking for, you can call, text, or chat online with the Women Veterans Call Center (WVCC) at 855-829-6636 to get help and find available resources and services in your area. Trained women representatives can also:
- Provide you with information on enrolling in VA health care if you have not already
- Provide you with information on setting up a medical appointment in your area
- Provide you with information about your eligibility (including questions about disability ratings) and other VA benefits like employment, education, and home loans
- Connect you with your local VA Medical Center or local women's health contact who can assist in coordinating all the services you need
WVCC representatives are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. ET, and Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. ET.
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