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

Complications
5 years ago

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

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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Rachael Daniels CPNP-PC, CLC
I'm so sorry for your loss sweet momma, and so happy for your rainbow baby. I too have had losses and know the heartbreak they bring. I have 2 beautiful, thriving children now but always remember the ones I lost. Thanks for shedding a little light on this topic, it is so common among women yet never really talked about. Beautiful post.
Elisa Schmitz
I am so grateful that you wrote about this very difficult topic, because many can relate to it and it is so helpful to know we're not alone. I just love your writing and I'm so happy you're part of our tribe, thank you. xoxo
Jessica Acree
Beautifully written in such a supportive and encouraging way ❤️
Carrie Watts
I feel this so deeply. It always hits me the hardest when a doctor asks me how many pregnancies I’ve had, and I have to number the “successful” vs. the “non-successful.” There are no adjectives to capture that feeling. But your piece comes the closest I’ve yet known. Thank you for sharing it with us.
MomThoughts
Thank you all for the kind words.
Mindy Hudon, M.S., CCC-SLP
This is so beautiful! I understand this pain all too well and no matter how many years have passed, I too hold my angel babies in my heart!

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