Trigger warning: discussions of stillborn babies and child loss.
Recently, I came across three mothers who faced public backlash for sharing images of their stillborn babies online. These already grieving moms were subjected to hurtful comments from some truly insensitive individuals.
In the comments beneath their photos, I encountered a slew of harsh judgments. One critic labeled a stillborn baby’s birth announcement as “inappropriate.” Another accused the parents of being “attention-seeking,” while one person shockingly referred to a beautiful child as “gross.”
To those who spew such negativity, I have a message for you. If I could sit down with any of you, I might be tempted to give you a piece of my mind. But since that isn’t feasible, let me offer you some insight into a topic you clearly don’t understand.
According to the World Health Organization, approximately 2.6 million stillbirths occur each year. That’s 2.6 million lives that deserve acknowledgment and respect. Yet, you, with your armchair judgments, seem to think you know better than these grieving parents.
Let’s clarify something: your discomfort lasts how long? Until you scroll past the image? Or until you’ve unleashed your cruel judgments on heartbroken parents? Spare us your pity.
When you take a moment to reflect, consider whether you’ve ever shared photos of your child on social media. If you have, then how can you not empathize with these parents? If you disagree with their choice to publicly share their stillborn child’s announcement, then frankly, you need to reevaluate your perspective.
Remember, a stillborn baby is still born. This was not the reality these parents envisioned when they saw those two lines on a pregnancy test. They didn’t want to share a photo of their still child; they dreamed of showcasing their vibrant, living baby. But life had different plans for them, and they are coping in the best way they can.
If they had cherished moments captured with their baby alive, they would have shared those instead. The photos they post are their only lasting memories.
Stillbirth takes away first cries, sleepless nights, birthdays, and all the joys that come with parenting. Why would you want to strip away even more from them?
It’s folks like you who have historically made stillbirth a taboo subject. However, thanks to brave parents sharing their stories—like the three I witnessed recently—it’s no longer a silent grief. After all, those 2.6 million lives deserve to be remembered and acknowledged.
To the person who casually tossed around the term “gross,” I urge you to show some humanity. Allow these parents to take pride in the brief life they created. If you can’t muster up kindness, then please use the unfriend button. Your negativity is unwelcome.
Understand this: you are the outlier. While compassionate voices offer condolences, your harsh words only expose your insensitivity. A parent’s love is resilient and cannot be diminished by your careless comments or the tragedy of loss.
Be kind, for you have no idea what heartache these parents endure.
For more insights into parenting and the complexities of family planning, check out our resources on home insemination kits, including guides from experts at Make a Mom and MedlinePlus. You can also find valuable information regarding self insemination techniques at Make a Mom.
In summary, the love parents have for their children—no matter how brief their time on Earth—should be respected and honored. Let us work towards a society that embraces empathy and understanding, rather than one that shames those who are already suffering.
Leave a Reply