Self-Care Tips After A Medical Termination

Experiencing a termination for medical reasons (TFMR) is a form of grief that can be hard to explain to others. If you had a TFMR, then in its purest form, you have experienced baby death. It can leave you feeling vulnerable, grieving, and in need of special care. The period following such a pregnancy loss is crucial for both your physical and emotional well-being. This blog post is designed to guide you through the various aspects of self-care after a TFMR, providing practical tips, emotional support, and valuable insights to help you heal and move forward.

The emotional aftermath of a TFMR can vary widely among individuals. Many TFMR parents experience profound grief, guilt, anger, and at times- relief. It's essential to acknowledge that these feelings are normal and part of the healing process. Due to the concerns around abortion laws, religion, and others’ opinions, many parents feel shamed into silence. It can be hard to find a provider who you know will understand your unique circumstances. As a TFMR mom myself, and an expert in providing support for TFMR parents, I have a few tips below:

Importance Of Self-Compassion

Self-compassion is crucial during this time. Allow yourself to grieve and remember that it's okay to feel a range of emotions. Be kind to yourself, and recognize that healing is a gradual and personal process, and don’t feel rushed in your process.

Taking Care Of Yourself

Rest and Recovery

After undergoing a TFMR, your body needs time to recover- you are postpartum. Ensure you get plenty of rest and avoid too strenuous activities. This period of physical recovery is vital for your overall well-being.

Nutritional Support

Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can aid in your healing process. Focus on foods that boost your immune system and provide the energy your body needs to repair itself.

Hydration

Staying hydrated is essential for your physical recovery. Water helps flush out toxins, supports your immune system, and keeps your body functioning optimally.

Ways To Help With Emotional Healing

• Take the Healing after TFMR Course

I designed a course for TFMR parents to aid them in their grieving process following a termination of pregnancy for medical reasons. In this course, I give you all the steps I took (and continue to teach others in therapy) to help you move through your grief in a way that is supportive and validating. 

• Seeking Emotional Support

Surround yourself with supportive and positive friends and family who understand what you're going through. Sharing your feelings with loved ones can provide immense relief and comfort.

• Therapy

Consider seeking help from a therapist who specializes in TFMR. They can offer coping strategies and a safe space to express your emotions without judgment. We also offer an on-demand course designed for parents navigating the complex journey of healing after TFMR. Remember, asking for professional help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

• Support Groups

Joining a support group for people who have experienced TFMR can be incredibly beneficial. Sharing your story with others who have gone through similar experiences can help you feel less isolated.

• Journaling

Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be a powerful tool for emotional healing. It allows you to process your emotions and gain clarity on your experiences.

• Mindfulness and Meditation

Practicing mindfulness and meditation can help you stay grounded, reduce stress, and manage overwhelming emotions. These techniques encourage you to focus on the present moment and cultivate a sense of inner peace and can be really helpful during moments of intense grief. Recommended apps are: Happier and Calm.

• Creative Outlets

Engaging in creative activities like gardening, drawing, painting, or crafting can provide an emotional release and a sense of accomplishment. It's a way to express your feelings without words.

• Honoring Your Baby’s Memory

Finding ways to honor your baby’s memory can be a meaningful part of your healing process. Acts of remembrance can provide comfort and keep the memory of your baby alive in your heart.

• Focus On Small Achievements

Celebrate small achievements no matter how insignificant they may seem. Getting out of bed, taking a shower, or going for a walk are all accomplishments when you’re grieving. Recognizing these small victories can boost your confidence and remind you of your resilience.

Reconnecting with your body can also be a great way to heal, but connect with your body that feels good to you. This can be through

• Gentle exercise like yoga and stretching

• Massage

• Breathing exercises⎯Practicing diaphragmatic breathing can help reduce stress and promote a sense of tranquility

Fill your space with items that bring you joy and comfort whether it's scented candles, cozy blankets and pillows, or artwork. Also, because your body is in postpartum you’re getting a huge hormone crash, so eating healthy, getting good sleep, and moving your body are good for your mental health and well-being while you’re healing and processing your grief.

Recovering from a medical termination is a multifaceted process involving both physical and emotional care. Remember, every woman’s experience is unique, so be kind to yourself and allow yourself the time you need to recover fully. Our directory of vetted, TFMR-supportive therapists are here to help you through this process.