After my third miscarriage I was seen at Walter Reed National Medical Center. After months of testing, surgeries, and long drives I was still awarded with no answers as to my secondary infertility. IUI and IVF were the next steps, but my husband and I weren’t ready for that. The month after I stopped receiving medical treatment we were surprised with another, now our 5th, pregnancy. We waited with baited breath because we were sure we would lose this baby too. But, for some reason, that baby stuck and she is now two years old. We were also surprised 6 months after her birth with another pregnancy, bringing us to our current family of five.
Not everyone’s story has a happy ending like ours. Some families may continue to experience the pain and loss that we experienced, and my heart aches knowing what those couple’s are experiencing. Resources and help are available to those who are suffering from miscarriages, and I urge you to seek those resources out if you are having difficulties in dealing with your loss(es).
My biggest piece of advice: be open about your losses. Not only will talking about your experiences and your pain bring you some relief but it will also open the door for other women to talk about their pain. Miscarriage and pregnancy loss are not discussed enough, and so many women share the pain unknowingly. If military wives are anything, they are supportive. We will hold you while you cry, we will listen while you vent, and we will share in your pain.
Need help in finding some resources out there for you? Check out the following, which may be available on your base:
- New Parent Support Program– Although generally known for their Baby Bootcamps and parenting classes, NPSP sometimes offer support groups for miscarriage and pregnancy loss.
- Military OneSource– Always a great source of information, and you can always call their hotline to speak to someone if need be.
- Your OB/GYN- Talk with your OB/GYN about any support programs held in the local area. Some may be at the MTF and some may be out in town. If your nervous about discussing this with your doctor, look around the waiting room- many times they will have pamphlets or flyers showcasing support groups in the area.
