In memory of Chaya Mirel bat R’ Avraham

In memory of Chaya Mirel bat R' Avraham

Harchakot after miscarriage
27/01/2021

Question

I’m wondering if you can offer any insight on the difficulty of harchakot after miscarriage? It seems so strange to me that Hashem denies all women who’ve gone through pregnancy loss from having the comfort of a hug or a held hand. I’ve considered that touch should be reserved for times when simcha can be expressed. I’ve considered that Hashem wants husbands and wives who’ve experienced pregnancy loss davka to work on their non–physical communication and bonding. However, the last time I went to the mikveh (the third time since my last miscarriage) I noticed while nidda I’m quite preoccupied with my losses, but while tehora my mood is considerably lifted, I feel like myself again. And I again felt confused why Hashem made us like this. I would really appreciate any insight. Thank you so much.

Answer

We are sorry that observing harchakot has become more difficult for you after miscarriage.
Many women seeking a hug or a hand held after miscarriage find it from close friends or family until their time in niddah has ended. This type of support can be harder to find during a pandemic.
Even when there is other support, harchakot can still be difficult, especially when a woman specifically seeks the comfort of her husband’s touch, and he hers.
At the same time, emotional support can make a difference, and you might be able to discuss with your husband ways to increase it during niddah. Also, the separation clearly establishes and defines the woman’s independent physical space, which can also be important for healing. The cycling that you describe between feeling more and less preoccupied with loss can be a healthy part of grieving, with some times more focused on grief, and others less so.
The hope would be that each time you return to your grief, you find that you have developed more strength to face it, and additional ways to assimilate it into your life narrative. If you find that your grief during niddah is becoming more pronounced, then you might find it helpful to speak with a counseling professional.
We hope this helps. Please let us know if you have further thoughts or questions.

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