You can expect a wide range of reactions from those who are close to you. Some will be able to listen, understand and empathize. Others may try to limit their conversations with you. This is because many people are unable to deal with the thought of loss or death and may think they are protecting you from your grief by not talking to you about your baby. They are not trying to avoid you; it is the topic they don’t want to confront.
There are those who might seem somewhat unsympathetic because they do not understand the strength of the bonds you have developed with your baby. Some will be understanding for a few days or weeks, expecting you to “get over it” in that amount of time. Some may even make comments that seem insensitive and cruel.
As time goes by, those who offered you strength in the beginning may come around less frequently as they get involved again in their own activities. Do not hesitate to ask them for the attention you need. It’s likely they don’t realize you still need them. In time, you will learn what to expect from people, and you will develop ways of responding that work best for you.