Support for a Prenatal Diagnosis

Receiving a prenatal diagnosis, especially one that is life-limiting or fatal, can be an overwhelming and emotional experience. If you are facing this difficult news, please know that you are not alone. The Church accompanies and stands with you, offering support, resources, and the reassurance of Jesus’ love in this journey.

The Church’s Teaching on Prenatal Diagnosis

Every child, from the moment of conception, is a unique gift, created in the image and likeness of God. Thus, the Church teaches that every unborn life deserves protection, care, and love. Prenatal screenings and diagnoses can serve an important role when used to safeguard or treat the life of the unborn child. Nevertheless, they must never become a justification for ending a life. (Catechism of the Catholic Church 2274, Donum Vitae I, 2).

No diagnosis can invalidate the dignity or worth of a child in the womb; as well, no parent should have to journey this path alone.

If you are seeking guidance and support, we are here to walk with you. The Church offers resources for families navigating a prenatal diagnosis, including spiritual, emotional, and practical assistance. We invite you to connect with our community of faith, where you will find compassionate accompaniment and the reassurance that every life is sacred and deeply loved.

The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for educational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You are encouraged to speak with a trusted healthcare provider regarding your child’s diagnosis and care.

"For it was you who formed my inward parts; you knit me together in my mother’s womb." - Psalm 139:13

Resources for Parents

A Catholic Guide to Miscarriage

In A Catholic Guide to Miscarriage, Stillbirth, and Infant Loss, Abigail Jorgensen serves as a companion and guide through perinatal loss in light of Catholic teaching.

A Gift of Time

With compassion and support, A Gift of Time walks parents step-by-step through the challenging and emotional experience following a prenatal diagnosis of a life-limiting condition.

Jellybean: A Baby's Journey to God

For families experiencing infant loss, this picture book shows the important role these babies still have in their families.

Loving Baby Louie: Hope in the Midst of Grief

Authors David and Colleen Currie share the story of their tenth grandchild, Louis Gerard, to offer hope to families suffering the loss of an infant and to assist children in the grieving process.

The Naming & Commendation of an Infant Who Died

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia has a prayer booklet for The Naming and Commendation of an Infant who Died Before Birth. You can ask your parish priest to pray this with you.

Affirming Life Initiative Pastoral Care Resources

Practical support for priests and pastoral workers supporting families following an unexpected or challenging prenatal diagnosis.

Prenatal Screening & Diagnosis Brochure

This brochure was developed by Be Not Afraid to help parents make informed decisions about prenatal care, including prenatal screenings and diagnoses.

New Melleray Abbey Child Casket Fund

As an important ministry of the monks of New Melleray Abbey, caskets are offered in compassion and faith at no cost to families who have lost a child.

Ministries for Prenatal Diagnosis

The following ministries were developed to support parents and families who have experienced a prenatal diagnosis, miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant loss.