Poland is introducing new regulations that remove the requirement to determine the sex of a miscarried fetus to qualify for funeral benefits and shortened leave. The ordinances were signed by Agnieszka Dziemianowicz-Bąk, Minister of Family, Labour and Social Policy. These changes aim to streamline procedures and ensure real access to support for those who have suffered a loss early in pregnancy.
“According to previous regulations, a woman was theoretically entitled to funeral benefits or shortened leave. Theoretically, because to claim these rights, the sex of the lost child had to be known,” the minister explained in a published video statement. She added that “this is feasible in later stages of pregnancy, but very difficult and burdensome if the pregnancy was lost earlier.”
Until now, parents seeking these benefits had to provide medical documentation confirming the child’s sex, which often required costly genetic testing. “Not everyone can afford such tests. Not every woman, not every person in such a situation thinks about undergoing these examinations,” Dziemianowicz-Bąk emphasized.
“We are putting an end to this cruel law,” she declared. Under the new regulations, a certificate from a midwife or doctor confirming the miscarriage will suffice to obtain benefits. The ordinances will come into effect 14 days after publication. “By August, the new humane law will replace the old, cruel and heartless one,” the minister stressed.
She also noted that the new rules will take effect sooner than initially planned. “I promised the regulations would start in September, but they will begin 14 days after publication. I am very pleased we managed to prepare and sign these ordinances earlier than expected,” she said.
The changes have been welcomed by organizations supporting those who have experienced pregnancy loss. Groups such as “Dlaczego” (an organization for grieving parents and parents of sick children) and the Parents After Miscarriage Association have long advocated for improved access to assistance in cases of miscarriage and infant death.
Support for Those Grieving a Child
People affected by the loss of a child can turn to organizations recommended by the National Centre for Family Pastoral Care. Among them is “Dlaczego,” which brings together parents who have lost children at various stages—before birth, during delivery, or later due to illness or accidents. Their website, www.dlaczego.org.pl, provides information on support groups, retreats, and meetings for those mourning.
Additional resources are available at poronilam.pl, offering practical information, educational materials, and guidance for bereaved parents. The site also lists the largest association for parents after miscarriage—the Parents After Miscarriage Association—along with other support groups, services, and foundations.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Health runs a free helpline through the Patient Rights Office at 0 800 190 590, where callers can obtain information about patient rights related to miscarriage or child loss.
Family News Service