Pregnancy can be a beautiful journey, yet it’s not without its fears. One of the most daunting realities is stillbirth—a term that many expectant mothers might think belongs to the past or only affects those with certain health issues. I’ll admit, I once shared this misconception. I thought stillbirth was a concern from bygone eras or a risk for those facing health challenges. But then, my world shattered.
I enjoyed an otherwise normal pregnancy, with three healthy children and no medical issues. I was 36 weeks along, eagerly anticipating my baby’s arrival. One snowy evening, I settled into a warm bath to unwind with a book. As I placed my hands on my belly, I noticed an unsettling absence of movement. Friends and family offered well-meaning but outdated reassurances: “Babies slow down towards the end,” or “She’s probably just taking a nap.”
However, my intuition nagged at me. When I reached out to my doctor, my worst fears were confirmed—my baby had no heartbeat.
The statistics are alarming. In the U.S., stillbirth affects 1 in 160 pregnancies, totaling around 24,000 babies each year. To put it in perspective, that’s equivalent to the combined number of infant deaths due to both prematurity and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)—stillbirth is even ten times more likely than SIDS. While many new mothers are educated about SIDS, stillbirth remains largely unspoken, shrouded in stigma and silence.
But there’s hope. In Iowa, a group of mothers grieving their losses launched the “Count the Kicks” campaign. The premise is straightforward: Dedicate time each day to connect with your baby by counting their movements, beginning at 28 weeks. If you notice any changes in your baby’s activity, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. It’s always better to be safe than sorry—trust your instincts.
Since “Count the Kicks” was introduced, Iowa has seen a remarkable 26% reduction in stillbirths, rising from the 33rd to the 3rd lowest state for stillbirth rates. That’s a significant impact!
I understand that life can be hectic and monitoring your baby’s movements might feel like just one more task on your to-do list. Yet, this simple act can truly be life-saving. Unfortunately, many women aren’t informed about the risks of stillbirth because healthcare providers worry about alarming their patients. It’s time for women to advocate for themselves and their babies—let’s educate ourselves, discuss stillbirth openly, and make counting kicks a daily ritual.
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In summary, while the topic of stillbirth may be uncomfortable, it’s crucial to acknowledge it. By counting kicks and staying attuned to your baby’s movements, you can play a proactive role in ensuring their safety.