Ep 66: The Emotional Journey of Pregnancy Loss and Healing Support with Lesleah Doherty

In this heartfelt and powerful episode, Sharna Southan welcomes midwife and mother Lesleah Doherty to share her profound experiences of pregnancy loss and the sudden passing of her six-week-old son. Together, they explore the emotional depth of grief, the gaps in the current healthcare system for women experiencing pregnancy loss, and the importance of support throughout these challenging times. Lesleah reflects on her career, the empathy needed in caregiving roles, and her journey of healing. Sharna and Lesleah also discuss how breaking the silence and stigma around early pregnancy loss is critical. They advocate for sharing the news of pregnancy sooner rather than later, so that the emotional weight and support required can be acknowledged. This episode serves as a guidepost for women and families seeking emotional validation, guidance, and healing after a loss, offering resources and insights into mental and physical recovery. Key Takeaways: The Power of Support: Sharna and Lesleah emphasise the importance of offering compassionate support to women during and after pregnancy loss, sharing personal experiences of how vital it is to not feel alone in grief. Breaking the Stigma: They explore the societal and medical pressures to wait to announce pregnancies and how this contributes to isolation during a time when women need support the most. Healthcare Gaps: The conversation highlights the emotional and systemic gaps in healthcare when it comes to miscarriage, stillbirth, and infant loss. Lesley advocates for more follow-up care and tailored emotional support in medical settings. Healing Through Connection: Both Sharna and Lesleah reflect on the need for ongoing conversations, safe spaces, and community support for women and families navigating loss and healing. Resources Mentioned: Pregnancy Loss Practitioner Certification: A program designed to bridge the gap in support for bereaved parents, providing professionals with the tools to offer mental, physical, and emotional care after pregnancy loss. Birthmark Barossa: Lesley's upcoming birth debriefing service focusing on birth trauma and pregnancy loss recovery. Connect the Lesleah: Birthmark.com.au https://www.instagram.com/birthmarkbarossa Birthmark Barossa (Website Coming Soon)   Apply to become a Pregnancy Loss practitioner: HERE Follow me on Instagram: @instituteofhealing_pl @pregnancyloss_podcast @instituteofhealing.losssupport Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify  For those seeking guidance and support, this episode is a reminder that you are not alone, and there are resources and communities ready to help you through your healing journey. Thank you for tuning in, and if you found this episode valuable, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts. We look forward to supporting you in the next episode.   Disclaimer: Please note that the information shared in this podcast is not intended as medical advice. For personal medical advice and support, consult with your healthcare provider. Your Feedback Matters: If you found value in this episode, kindly leave a review on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback is crucial in helping us deliver content that supports, informs, and heals. Feel free to share this episode on social media and tag us with your insights and takeaways. Sharna Southan Pregnancy Loss Practitioner & Trauma informed Coach Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/instituteofhealing_pl/ W: www.sharnasouthan.com