In a world where the subject of miscarriage often remains shrouded in silence, a powerful Instagram account is breaking down barriers and creating a supportive community for women experiencing this profound loss. The account, “I Had A Miscarriage,” was founded by Rachel Brooks after she faced her own miscarriage at 16 weeks. This personal tragedy led her to create a space where women can openly share their stories about pregnancy loss and stillbirth.
As a psychologist with a focus on women’s reproductive and maternal mental health, Brooks has treated numerous women grappling with the emotional aftermath of miscarriages. In a candid conversation with Modern Family Blog, she reflected on her own experience, stating, “I never understood the weight of the silence surrounding pregnancy loss until I went through it myself.” After a harrowing experience of delivering alone at home and then undergoing a dilation and curettage procedure, Brooks expressed how deeply transformative and traumatic that moment was. “Two hours later I returned home and realized I was no longer pregnant. It was a life-altering experience.”
Through her Instagram account and the hashtag #IHadAMiscarriage, Brooks aims to foster a new dialogue around miscarriage, letting grieving mothers know they are not isolated in their sorrow. “By sharing these stories globally, we build a sense of belonging and community,” she explains. “Even without knowing each other personally, we connect through shared emotions. So many comments resonate with the sentiment, ‘I could have written this myself.’ It highlights our commonality in pain.”
The March of Dimes indicates that around 10-15 percent of recognized pregnancies—those in which the woman is aware of her pregnancy—end in miscarriage. While most cases occur during the first trimester, 1-5 percent can happen in the second trimester, usually due to chromosomal abnormalities beyond any mother’s control.
Despite the prevalence of miscarriage, many women experience feelings of loneliness, shame, and self-blame during their grieving process. Brooks aspires for her Instagram account and the #IHadAMiscarriage movement to provide a healing space for women to process their emotions and raise awareness about the realities of miscarriage. For more insights on fertility and related topics, check out our post on at-home insemination kits here. Additionally, for a comprehensive understanding of pregnancy resources, visit this excellent source.
In summary, Rachel Brooks’ Instagram account is a beacon of hope and community for those mourning pregnancy loss, challenging the stigma that often surrounds these experiences. By opening up conversations and providing a platform for shared stories, she is helping women feel less alone in their grief and encouraging a more compassionate dialogue around miscarriage.