What is a Rainbow Baby?

The term ‘Rainbow baby’ is a meaningful expression to describe a baby that is born after miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, molar pregnancy, termination for medical reasons, stillbirth or neonatal death.

For many years the symbolic rainbow baby term has been used by members of the baby loss community to represent these special little ones. To a lot of parent’s rainbows symbolise the hope and light after a dark time, however this does not take away the grief felt by parents about their loss.

An arrival of a baby after a previous loss can be an emotional time in a multitude of ways and may bring up many conflicting feelings such as happiness, grief or even guilt. It is important to understand that there is no ‘right’ way to feel during this time and the feeling you have are valid.

Some parents may find it helpful talking to someone they trust such as a friend, family member or health professional. It may also be a source of support to speak to other parents/families that have been through or are in similar situations. Organisations such as Tommy’s and Miscarriage Association in the UK offer support to parents that are going through or have been effected by pregnancy and baby loss.