Name experts praised for sharing sentimental ideas for naming a rainbow baby

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Many parents want to have a meaningful name for their rainbow baby (stock photo) (Image: Getty Images)
Many parents want to have a meaningful name for their rainbow baby (stock photo) (Image: Getty Images)

Losing a baby is harrowing - but there's always hope of having a rainbow baby if you decide to try again. The term 'rainbow baby' is used for parents expecting a child after losing a baby to miscarriage, stillbirth, or neonatal death, and was coined to signify the arrival of something beautiful after a storm.

According to the American Pregnancy Association (APA), approximately 85 per cent of birthing people who have experienced a miscarriage will go on to have a successful pregnancy, along with 75 per cent of birthing people who have experienced multiple losses.

When deciding what to call a baby who arrives after a miscarriage, stillbirth, or neonatal death, many parents like to give them a poignant moniker that shows just how precious they are. And while there are lots of beautiful choices, one naming expert has revealed some of the most poignant options.

Sharing on their TikTok page, The Baby Name Bible, revealed what they think are some of the most “meaningful” and “adorable” rainbow baby names around. First up is Nova, which means ‘new’. They explained: “An astronomic term given to bright stars that appear suddenly in the sky and release powerful energy.”

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Next on the list is Faith, “meaning ‘trust’ or ‘devotion,’ a meaningful reminder of the importance of loyalty and trust throughout your journey.” For a boy, the account suggests the name Lucas, which means “bringer of light”.

There’s also Iris, meaning rainbow, and is Greek. Iris was the name of the goddess of the rainbow, according to Greek Mythology, and was said to deliver messages to the Gods across a rainbow bridge.

Another beautiful option is Celeste, meaning “heavenly” or “sent from heaven”. One name that appeared to be popular with people in the comments was Asher, which the Baby Name Bible suggested for a boy but can be used for either sex. According to the account, Asher means “fortunate, blessed, happy one”.

Lots of expectant parents loved the options with many choosing to share their thoughts and own names for their rainbow babies. One person wrote: “I’m pregnant with my rainbow baby his name is going to be Asher.” With someone else replying: “My rainbow is Called Asher, he’s eight in a week.”

Another user shared their own baby’s moniker, writing: “Me and my partner’s rainbow baby’s middle name is Illyria meaning gift from the stars.” And another viewer suggested: “Isabella - means a gift from god.”

Some shared their own stories of grief at losing a baby, with one mum writing: “My daughter is a twinless twin, her middle name is Hope as that's what she gave me after losing her brother at 19 weeks pregnant.” And another parent heartbreakingly shared: “Nova is the name of my little rainbow girl. I lost three babies in one year all to ectopic pregnancy.”

If you're in the UK and have been affected by this story, advice and support can be found at Sands (stillbirth and neonatal death charity). You can call them on 0808 164 3332 or email [email protected]. If you are in the US, the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline provides free, confidential support 24/7 in English and Spanish. Call or text the hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262).

Eve Wagstaff

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