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National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month

Join us in raising awareness and supporting those affected by pregnancy and infant loss this month. Let's break the silence and honor these precious lives.

Thursday

1–31

October 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAll of October

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYHealth Conditions

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

October is not only a month of falling leaves and pumpkin spice, but also a time to acknowledge and honor the strength and resilience of those who have experienced pregnancy or infant loss. This October 1 marks the start of National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, a time for families and communities to come together in support and remembrance. This month has been observed since 1988 when President Ronald Reagan designated it as such. It serves as an opportunity to raise awareness about this often stigmatized topic and provide support for those who have suffered such a heartbreaking loss. Let's use this month to shine light on these brave individuals and spread love and understanding.

TIMELINE

National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month Timeline

Origination by Reagan

President Ronald Reagan designated October as National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month to acknowledge the pain of grieving families.

Formation of October 15th Movement

A campaign began asking for a specific day within the month, leading to October 15 to be traditionally recognized as National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day.

Congressional Support

The U.S. House of Representatives passed a resolution supporting the goals and ideals of National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day.

International Recognition

Countries around the world begin recognizing October 15 as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day.

New Resolution Proposal

A new resolution was proposed to the U.S. Senate for October to be a month to raise national awareness, remember lost babies, and support bereaved families.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month

Light a candle in remembrance

On October 15th, light a candle at 7pm in your local time zone to honor and remember all the babies who have passed away too soon. This is a powerful way to show your support and raise awareness for pregnancy and infant loss.

PARTICIPATE

Participate in a virtual walk or run

Many organizations hold virtual walks or runs during this month to raise funds and awareness for pregnancy and infant loss. Sign up, gather some friends and family, and participate in memory of a lost little one.

DONATE

Donate to a local charity

Find a local organization that supports families who have experienced pregnancy or infant loss and donate your time, money, or resources. Your contribution can make a big difference in the lives of grieving families.

Share your story

If you have experienced pregnancy or infant loss, consider sharing your story on social media or with a support group. Your words could offer comfort and support to others who are going through a similar experience.

EDUCATE

Educate yourself and others

Take the time to educate yourself about pregnancy and infant loss, including risk factors, prevention, and ways to support those who have experienced it. Share this information with friends and family to help raise awareness and reduce the stigma around this difficult topic.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month is Important

It serves as a reminder to honor and remember lost loved ones

National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month gives us a chance to reflect on the lives that were taken too soon. It's important to remember and honor these precious lives, and this month provides a platform to do just that. Whether it's through participating in events or simply lighting a candle in remembrance, this month reminds us to keep the memory of lost loved ones alive.

It brings awareness to a difficult and often overlooked topic

Pregnancy and infant loss is a very sensitive and personal experience, and oftentimes, those who have gone through it feel alone in their grief. By dedicating an entire month to raising awareness about this issue, it helps to bring attention and support to those who have been affected.

It provides resources and support for families

During National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, many organizations and support groups offer resources, counseling, and events for families who have experienced loss. This can be incredibly helpful for individuals or couples who are navigating the difficult journey of dealing with pregnancy or infant loss.

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