Lets Talk Numbers

Accoding to Wikipedia; Stillbirth is a relatively common, but often random, occurrence. The mean stillbirth rate in the United States is approximately 1 in 115 births, which is roughly 26,000 stillbirths each year, or on an average one every 20 minutes. In Australia, England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the rate is approximately 1 in every 200 births, in Scotland 1 in 167. (From The National Statistical Office and other sources.) Many stillbirths occur at fullterm to apparently healthy mothers, and a postmortem evaluation reveals a cause of death in only about 40% of autopsied cases. And the number is rising each year as women wait later and later in life to concieve increasing their likelyhood to miscarry.

I just joined the 26,000 other women who lost their babies to stillbirth. 26,000! And thats just stillbirth! I couldnt even find an accurate number on the total miscarraiges there are a year. One website claimed that up to 75% of pregnancies end in miscarriage! Look at how many of us there are! We are all so lulled into thinking that this cant happen in our day and age. That our advanced technology is somehow going to protect us. I admit that I thought my doctor had it all under control and nothing could or would go wrong. People still dont really openly talk about miscarriages either. I mean if they did would these numbers be as suprising as they are?

I was suprised by the number of women that came out of the woodwork to tell me their stories of loss. I cant even tell you how comforted I am by them. They show me that Im not being irrational in my grief. That the emotions that Im going threw have all been felt at some point by them as well. That Im not alone. That there is life and hope beyond where Im at. I want to thank each of you who do or will share with me your stories. Its hard to dredge up those memories and I appreciate the fact that your willing to feel those emotions over again with me.

God Bless to each and everyone of you!