Stillbirth is defined as the loss of a baby between 20 weeks' gestation and birth. Globally 1 in 160 expecting families experience stillbirth, and that incidence is ever greater in the U.S. If this number is surprising that's because stillbirth isn't really talked about. And the effect of the silence is isolation. While society is well-meaning, we're often ill-prepared to truly understand the emotions felt by these parents. Especially the mothers, who tend to have have their own unique set of emotions beyond grief. What does she most need from us? What comments are helpful, and which are hurtful? When, if ever, should you presume it's time to stop asking her how she's doing? To stop mentioning her baby? Our own nervousness and lack of understanding can misreflect the compassion we feel.

March is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness month. In today's roundtable Samantha, Laura and Jessica are here to share their stories, starting with the births of their babies Alana, Henry and Teddy. If you are pregnant, or feel it would best serve you to skip those details, then you can jump directly to the fourth chapter marker halfway through this episode. If you listen to the very end, you may be surprised to hear appreciation and inspiration make their way into these women's stories, not in spite of their babies, but because of them. You'll also learn that nothing is more important and meaningful to these women than telling their stories, saying their children's name, and honoring their existence. And for giving them this opportunity to be heard, thank you for listening.

Star Legacy Foundation
Stary Legacy Foundation - NY Metro Chapter
Pregnancy Research Project
Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month
Glow in the Woods
PALS: Pregnancy After Loss Support
Faces of Loss
An Unexpected Family Outing
Still Standing Magazine
How Family & Friends Can Help
Parenting in Pregnancy

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If you enjoyed this episode of the Down To Birth Show, please share with your pregnant and postpartum friends!

Between episodes, connect with us on Instagram @DownToBirthShow to see behind-the-scenes production clips and join the conversation by responding to our questions and polls related to pregnancy, childbirth and early motherhood. You can reach us at Contact@DownToBirthShow.com or call (802) 438-3696 (802-GET-DOWN). We are always happy to hear from you and will strive to feature your questions and comments on upcoming shows.

You can sign up for online and in-person HypnoBirthing childbirth classes for pregnant couples taught by Cynthia Overgard, as well as online breastfeeding classes and weekly postpartum support groups run by Cynthia & Trisha at HypnoBirthing of Connecticut.

Please remember we don’t provide medical advice, and to speak with your licensed medical provider related to all your healthcare matters. Thanks so much for joining in the conversation, and see you next week!

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#14 | Roundtable: Mothers of Stillbirth and What They Can Teach Us

Down to Birth

#14 | Roundtable: Mothers of Stillbirth and What They Can Teach Us