Discussing maternal health with a certified birth doula

The Silent Struggle: Pregnancy Loss, Support, and a Changing Conversation

Jan. 27, 2026 at 7:15pm

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The recent heartbreaking announcement from Carolina Matovac, fiancée of Buffalo Sabres star Rasmus Dahlin, about her pregnancy loss due to heart failure has brought a deeply personal and often unspoken tragedy into the spotlight. This article explores the prevalence of pregnancy loss, the stigma surrounding it, and the growing efforts to provide better support and resources for those affected.

Why it matters

Pregnancy loss is a widespread issue that affects approximately one in four pregnancies, yet it has historically been shrouded in silence and stigma. By bringing these experiences into the open, we can foster a more compassionate and supportive environment for those navigating this heartbreaking journey.

The details

As birth doula Tara Withey pointed out, roughly one in four pregnancies ends in loss. Recent data from the March of Dimes indicates that approximately 10-20% of known pregnancies result in miscarriage before 20 weeks. However, these numbers may be underestimated due to early miscarriages occurring before a pregnancy is even confirmed. The emotional toll extends beyond the immediate loss, often leading to anxiety, depression, and relationship strain.

  • The recent heartbreaking announcement from Carolina Matovac, fiancée of Buffalo Sabres star Rasmus Dahlin, about her pregnancy loss due to heart failure.

The players

Carolina Matovac

The fiancée of Buffalo Sabres star Rasmus Dahlin, who recently announced her pregnancy loss due to heart failure.

Tara Withey

A certified birth doula who highlighted the prevalence of pregnancy loss, with roughly one in four pregnancies ending in loss.

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What they’re saying

“Roughly one in four pregnancies ends in loss.”

— Tara Withey, Certified birth doula (newsy-today.com)

What’s next

The growing demand for specialized support services, such as those offered by the Western New York Perinatal Bereavement Network, underscores the prevalence of pregnancy loss and the need for continued investment in maternal health. Additionally, the rise of telehealth and AI-powered tools may help expand access to personalized grief support and preventative care in the future.

The takeaway

By fostering empathy, providing access to resources, and embracing open dialogue, we can create a more compassionate and supportive environment for those who are navigating the heartbreaking journey of pregnancy loss. This shift in conversation and support is crucial in addressing the widespread impact of this often-unspoken tragedy.