In 2022, I found myself at a rally in Washington, D.C., sharing my heart-wrenching story about my son, Lucas, who was stillborn at 31 weeks in 2015. As I stood before an audience of healthcare professionals and fellow bereaved parents, my voice shook with emotion. However, anger soon overtook my sorrow as I demanded change in maternal healthcare practices. “One in 170 babies are stillborn each year,” I exclaimed, “and one of those was my Lucas.”
The stark reality is that in the United States, around 21,000 pregnancies end in stillbirth annually, and research indicates that at least one in four of these tragedies could be prevented with improved education, better fetal monitoring, and comprehensive prenatal care, as highlighted by the National Institutes of Health.
My mission is clear: to advocate for essential changes in stillbirth prevention and risk education, ensuring that no parent has to endure the pain I felt. By raising awareness and pushing for better resources, I hope to create a future where fewer families experience the devastation of losing a child due to preventable causes. For those considering becoming parents, it’s crucial to equip yourself with knowledge and resources. You can explore options like the at-home insemination products available at Make a Mom and learn more about pregnancy at WHO. Additionally, if you’re planning for your baby’s arrival, check out Intracervical Insemination for expert insights.
Summary:
This article discusses the tragic experience of a mother who lost her son to stillbirth and her subsequent advocacy for better maternal healthcare to prevent such losses in the future. It emphasizes the importance of education and resources in reducing stillbirth rates and offers links to relevant products and information.