Miscarriage Isn't A Dirty Word

Miscarriage isn't a dirty word. Neither are infertility, stillbirth, pregnancy loss, or infant loss. But so often those of us who experience these life-altering events feel that they are dirty words, things to suffer in silence. But we shouldn't have to. The stigma, taboo, and shame all need to be broken down and done away with. And with this story of my experience I'm hoping to contribute to the chipping away of each. I hope to normalize the conversation and make way for more healing. My story is told in a unique format - unlike many others that have come before. This is because I wanted to tell it in a way that may connect with new readers dealing with the grief of a loss. It is a collection of poetry and illustrations put together in the midst of my heartbreak and healing after losing my son at 17 weeks of pregnancy. It is not a guide or instructions on how to heal, but simply my own experience. Miscarriage and all similar losses are too stigmatized, which is unacceptable. This is just one attempt to normalize the horrific experience one in four women suffer through. I am not alone in this, and neither is anyone suffering through the same. I hope I can help one person feel heard or connected through my clumsy words and images. I am not an expert, but I think my contributing to the conversation is essential. **Content warnings: miscarriage, pregnancy loss, depression, anxiety, and similar topics.**