A rainbow baby is a healthy baby born to a family after they have experienced the loss of a previous child due to miscarriage, stillbirth, ectopic pregnancy, termination for medical reasons, or neonatal death. The term "rainbow baby" symbolizes hope, healing, and new life following the emotional storm of loss, much like a rainbow appears after a storm
. The experience of having a rainbow baby often involves complex and mixed emotions, including joy, anxiety, guilt, and grief. Parents may feel immense happiness but also fear and sadness as they navigate the pregnancy or early life of the rainbow baby, reflecting both the memory of the lost child and the new hope brought by the baby
. Some parents find comfort and meaning in the term, while others may feel discomfort because it can emphasize the loss rather than the new baby's life or create a special label that not all parents want to use
. The concept has gained recognition in the pregnancy loss community, with August 22 designated as National Rainbow Baby Day to honor these children and their families
. In summary, a rainbow baby represents a symbol of hope and healing for families who have endured the pain of losing a child and then welcomed a new child into their lives
