Carrying a Baby with a Life-Limiting Diagnosis
Many families feel lost when they receive a hard diagnosis and do not know where to turn for support. There are no words to describe the moment where you learn that your child’s life may be far shorter than you’d ever hoped or imagined.
A life-limiting pregnancy diagnosis refers to a medical condition that is diagnosed during pregnancy and is expected to result in the death of the baby before, during, or shortly after birth.
This is a devastating and heart-breaking experience for expectant parents, who are faced with the difficult decision of how to navigate the remainder of the pregnancy and the birth.
There are many different conditions that can result in a life-limiting diagnosis, including chromosomal abnormalities, severe birth defects, and preterm birth. The specific treatment and management plan will depend on the specific condition and the needs of the parents and baby.
Some life-limiting diagnosis' include:
Chromosomal abnormalities such as Trisomy 13 or Trisomy 18
Severe birth defects, such as anencephaly or congenital diaphragmatic hernia
Placental abnormalities, such as placental insufficiency or placental abruption
Pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) or preeclampsia
Gestational diabetes
Maternal medical conditions, such as heart disease or lupus
Umbilical cord abnormalities, such as cord compression or cord prolapse
One important aspect of managing a life-limiting pregnancy is the availability of palliative care, which focuses on providing comfort and support to the baby and the family. This may include pain management, feeding support, and emotional support for the parents.
It is important for expectant parents facing a life-limiting diagnosis to have access to a team of medical professionals who can provide the necessary support and care. This may include obstetricians, neonatologists, pediatric palliative care specialists, and mental health professionals.
It is also important for expectant parents to be aware of their resources and to have the opportunity to make informed decisions about their care and the care of their baby. This may include the option to deliver the baby at a location of their choice, such as at home or in a hospice setting.
Mother of Wilde has partnerships with many organizations that assist in providing resources to families that are given a life-limiting diagnosis during pregnancy.
Abel Speaks exists to walk with parents who have chosen to carry a child with a life-limiting diagnosis. Abel Speaks is based out of Dallas, Texas and founded by Daniel and Kelly Crawford to honor their son, Abel Paul.
Labor of Hope is a faith-based non-profit organization that exists to value and celebrate every life. They accomplish this by supporting and equipping families who have received a critical or life-limiting diagnosis during pregnancy.
We believe every child’s life is beautiful and meaningful, no matter the length. On this road where you never thought you’d find yourself, you are not alone. We are here to walk with you.
This article is written by Mother of Wilde founder, Moria Rooney. Moria is a wife and mother of three. She has a passion for ministering to others and sharing the love of Christ. After her son was born still, she felt a calling to serve others and to spread the word of God, and eventually decided to pursue a career in ministry. Her focus is reaching bereaved parents and families in need. Mother of Wilde offers hope, prayer, biblical encouragement, and remembrance memorials to those that have experienced pregnancy, stillbirth or child loss.