What to Say

It takes a tremendous amount of strength for someone to talk about their loss. Nearly one in four pregnancies ends in a loss. About 3,400 babies in the United States die suddenly and unexpectedly each year. Chances are, you've met someone who has experienced a loss. The following provides guidance on what to say to sound supportive.

Here is what is helpful to say to someone who has experienced a loss:

• "I'm sorry"

• "I'm sorry for your loss."

• "I'm here if you need to talk."

• "I'm praying for you and your baby."

Here is what is unhelpful to say:

• "At least you know you can get pregnant..."

• "It was God's will."

• "It was a part of God's plan."

• "You have another child [or children] at home that you need to think about."

God does not will children to die. It is not part of His plan.

The child's death is also not a result of the sin of the parents.