For Sale, Baby Shoes, Never Worn: When There's No Baby to Celebrate, There's Still a Rainbow Baby Complications

It’s said that Ernest Hemingway entered a contest to tell the saddest story in six words. He wrote, “For Sale, Baby Shoes, Never Worn.” I’m sure there’s never been a more accurate, poignant description of infertility and miscarriage.

For every woman who announces her pregnancy on social media, there’s another who is holding an ultrasound photo after being told there isn’t a heartbeat anymore. For every excited, round-bellied mom in the waiting room at the doctor’s office, there’s another who is waiting for the final confirmation that her HCG level reading is at zero. For every happy couple who conceived right on schedule, there’s another grieving yet another negative pregnancy test. Every story doesn’t end with a baby in your arms. Sometimes, there is a rainbow baby.

If this resonates with you, know that you’re not alone. We don’t talk about it enough, but your struggles are real, and I encourage you to give yourself grace to feel the way you need to feel. I see you, and I wish for you a happy ending.

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