The Facts

• A miscarriage is defined as the loss of a pregnancy before the baby would have been viable, which is typically around the 24th week of pregnancy. Most miscarriages occur before the 13th week of pregnancy, but no matter the stage of pregnancy the miscarriage occurs, it is devastating to the expectant parents. Parents who have experienced a miscarriage need to work through the grieving process.
  
  

Time Frame

• Before returning to work, it is important to give yourself time to heal, both physically and emotionally, after experiencing a miscarriage. Make arrangements with your boss to take whatever time off you need. Consider arranging to work part-time for a few days once you return to ease into your work schedule again. Coming back to work halfway through the week can help make the transition easier by giving you a break for the weekend.
  
  

Effects

• What you decide to tell your coworkers after having a miscarriage is a personal decision. If you were far enough along in your pregnancy that your coworkers already knew that you were expecting a baby, you will need to tell them what happened. If you miscarried earlier, before your coworkers were aware of your pregnancy, you can tell them on an individual basis, depending on what you are most comfortable with.
  
  If you feel like you need to explain your absence, writing an email to your friends and coworkers explaining that you had a miscarriage can save you from having to explain yourself numerous times when you first return to work.
  
  

Benefits

• Returning to work after you have physically healed from a miscarriage can help take your mind off your loss, at least for a short period of time. Friends and coworkers can provide a support system outside of your spouse, who is likely feeling the loss as well. Accept help when it is offered, and do not feel like you have to grieve alone.
  
  

Evolution

• Time may not heal all wounds but it does dull the pain. While you will always grieve for the baby that you have lost, you will not always feel your loss so sharply. Allow the other relationships in your life to be strengthened as your friends and coworkers help you to work through your grief and return to work.