If you're a practitioner who works with people who may be miscarrying, we recommend that you put together a take-home kit of supplies that might be useful when that miscarriage occurs.
Why Offer Kits:
These supplies not only may be helpful to her practically speaking, but they also provide professional, medical affirmation that for some families, it feels right to collect the products of conception and either explore the possibility of testing or lay them to rest in a meaningful way. When paired with a compassionate brochure or handout that explains what someone may experience physically, these supplies offer a patient the sense that you as providers are aware that something important will happen to them when they leave the office.
How to Offer a Kit:
Before you send someone home with this kit, make sure you take out its contents and explain what they are. Each individual should be reassured that these materials are available should she want to make use of them. Not everyone wants to catch or keep the remains of a miscarriage, and that's completely fine. We need to say this. However, as providers, we also want to offer the possibility for each individual to save the products of conception in an uncomplicated, tidy way, and that's why we give out these kits.
And, a note about language: most people who are miscarrying don't like the phrase "products of conception." You can ask a person what they'd like you to say. Does "pregnancy" feel comfortable? Do they view this as a baby? Don't be afraid to explore what feels comfortable to each family. They will appreciate your thoughtfulness.
