Meghan Markle and Prince Harry announce pregnancy following loss

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have announced they are expecting another baby, with a black and white photograph of the couple.

The happy news comes after Meghan shared that she sadly experienced a miscarriage last year. "Losing a child means carrying an almost unbearable grief, experienced by many but talked about by few," she wrote in an incredibly honest and heart-breaking New York Times essay at the end of last year. 

We know that being pregnant after loss can be an incredibly anxious time with lots of mixed emotions. If you are pregnant following loss, you may feel excited or relieved that you’re pregnant again, but also worried about how this pregnancy will progress. Some women may still be grieving for the baby they lost and feel guilty about feeling happy about the arrival of a rainbow baby.

Any feelings you have are natural. Pregnancy can be a very emotional experience, and you’ve been through a very difficult time. Be kind to yourself.

Tommy’s midwife Sophie King said:

“It’s wonderful news that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are expecting again – but as we know they sadly lost a baby last year, this celebration may feel bittersweet, while their pregnancy journey stirs up heart-breaking memories and complex emotions. Children born after loss are often called ‘rainbow babies’ to symbolise hope and light after a dark time, but it’s important to remember that a rainbow doesn’t erase the storm that came before it, which can make pregnancy and parenting after loss very challenging.

Any expectant or new parent may struggle with anxiety, but it can be very hard for those who have lost babies to believe that won’t happen again, or they may feel guilty for being excited about a new arrival while grieving a sibling. Grappling with these issues can feel very lonely, but networks like Tommy’s Parenting After Loss group on Facebook can help families connect and cope. Healthcare professionals also offer support throughout the journey, such as extra scans for reassurance during pregnancy or talking therapy if parents are struggling at any point.

We’re all different so the only advice that will apply to everyone is to focus on your physical and mental health, doing things you enjoy or find relaxing. Grief, pregnancy and parenting are all very tiring so take it a day at a time and be kind to yourself. Talk to someone you’re close to, or release emotions into a journal, but don’t keep things in – asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness, so reach out for support if you need it.”

For support with pregnancy and parenting after loss: