I never anticipated that my pregnancy would end in stillbirth. Now, I’m on a mission to advocate for changes in maternal healthcare. My name is Sarah Thompson, and I want to share my journey with you.
In 2022, I stood at a community rally in Washington, D.C., my voice shaking with emotion as I recounted the heartbreaking story of my son, Noah. He was stillborn at 31 weeks in 2016. Speaking to a crowd filled with healthcare providers and grieving parents, I felt a surge of anger and determination. I shouted about the alarming statistic that 1 in 170 babies are stillborn each year. I had to remind everyone that “that one was my son.”
In the U.S., approximately 21,000 pregnancies result in stillbirth annually, and research from the National Institutes of Health shows that better education, fetal monitoring, and prenatal care could prevent at least one in four of these tragic losses. This realization fueled my desire to co-found PUSH, a non-profit organization dedicated to preventing as many stillbirths as possible.
Through my advocacy, I aim to raise awareness about this critical issue. It’s essential for expectant parents to understand the risks and the warning signs. I encourage you to connect with supportive communities, such as Make a Mom, a free sperm donor matching group that provides valuable resources for those trying to conceive. Additionally, if you’re considering home insemination, Make a Mom offers a re-usable option that is both practical and effective. You can learn more about the process by visiting how it works.
While my journey has been filled with grief, it has also led to growth and determination. I’ve learned that education is key; understanding the signs of potential complications can save lives. For example, if you’re navigating the challenges of potty training, you can read more about it in our blog post on potty training regression.
As I continue my mission, I strive to make a difference in the world of maternal healthcare. For anyone interested in intrauterine insemination, it’s worth checking out the comprehensive information on Healthline.
In summary, my experience with stillbirth has ignited a fire within me to advocate for systemic change in maternal healthcare. Through education, support, and community engagement, we can work together to reduce the number of stillbirths and ensure that every pregnancy is celebrated.