Sisters in Loss Podcast: Miscarriage, Pregnancy Loss, & Infertility Stories

Dear Mama,  What if I told you Black mamas aren't superheroes, that the cape is choking us, and our backs are brittle?  What if I told you motherhood ain't killing us, though, but the narratives we buy into hook, line, and sinker are? What if you had the option not to be the primary custodial parent?  Would you decline out of obligation to the belief that a good Black mama would never choose to leave their children in the care of others, even the other parent?  How does a Black mother respond when what's best for her or her destiny clashes with cultural norms?   In this Mother's Day episode, I shared my journey with Dem Black Mamas Podcast about the complexities and challenges of non-custodial parenting and Black motherhood. When Erica and her husband decided to divorce, they also agreed to shared custody.  Each parent would have primary custody for 3 years of their son Maxwell who was diagnosed with spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy 10 years ago. We dive into: Confronting societal norms and cultural stigmas Navigating health and care decisions for children with special needs as a noncustodial parent Historical trauma and Black motherhood Renegotiating Black motherhood Connect with Dem Black Mamas: YouTube | Email List | Patreon | Blusky

Today's episode is a solo episode where our founder Erica M. Freeman shares our newest Grief Support Group - Black Moms Loss Returning.  This is expanding our currently offering in our partnership with Postpartum Support International.   Black Moms in Loss will be held weekly on Thursday's at 8pm EST Black Moms in Loss Returning will be held bi-weekly on Tuesday's at 8:30pm EST. Join our Weekly Grief Support Groups at sistersinloss.com/psi Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Black Moms in Loss Online Weekly Grief Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

Today's episode is a two part episode where we discuss adoption and second trimester loss.  Today's guest Dr. Tatiana Height wanted to become a mother through private adoption as she was single at the time.  During this time she faced alot of judgement from people about trying to adopt instead of carrying a biological child.  If you haven't listened to part 1 please go back to Episode 383 to listen. In this episode we discuss her finding out she was pregnant, her second trimester and miscarriage loss story, her 3rd failed adoption, and her grief and healing journey. We discuss how the third mom changed her mind the day the baby was due. Her due date was right at the same time as Tatiana was entering her second trimester, so she put her adoption plan on hold to focus on pregnancy. At 19 weeks and 3 days, her water broke and she gave birth to a baby girl, but she didn't survive.  10 months later she got pregnant again, but miscarried around 6 weeks, and she is now trying to adopt again. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Black Moms in Loss Online Weekly Grief Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

Have you considered adoption as a way to grow your family? Today's episode is a two part episode where we discuss adoption and second trimester loss.  Today's guest Dr. Tatiana Height wanted to become a mother through private adoption as she was single at the time.  During this time she faced alot of judgement from people about trying to adopt instead of carrying a biological child.  In this episode we discuss the adoption process, her two failed adoptions, the grief and loss from that experience, and her search for a sperm donor to conceive her own child.  We lead up in this episode of her matching with a third birth mother at the same time she found out she was pregnant.  This second part that will air next week will go into her second trimester loss story, and her grief and healing journey.  Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Black Moms in Loss Online Weekly Grief Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

We are easing into 2025 with our first Solo episode of the year with Erica Michelle. We are discussing staying informed through this new climate but not consumed. I share my favorite podcasts, books, and other media that I'm using to keep the peace and rest in this season.  We are being frutiful in 2025 and not easily swayed by misinformation, disinformation, and malinformation from this administration.  This episode is for you to listen to if you need some encouragement no matter where you are in your journey. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Black Moms in Loss Online Weekly Grief Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

2024 is here and we are kicking off the year with a solo episode.  Our founder, Erica Michelle, shares about easing into 2024, goals for Sisters in Loss in 2024, and surviving and thriving in 2024. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Black Moms in Loss Online Weekly Grief Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

I am excited to get behind the mic and kick off the new year with a solo episode discussing all about 2022 accomplishments and failures. In this episode, I deep dive into my personal development and growth in 2022, and share my 2023 word of the year. We discuss what's next with Sisters in Loss and what to look forward to in 2023 and how to stay connected to the community. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Black Moms in Loss Online Weekly Grief Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

Today's episode is a solo episode where I catch you up on all the things happening with Sisters in Loss and celebrating my birthday on July 17th and 4 years of podcasting on August 2.   In this episode we discuss: -Taking a solo vacation for my birthday -Recapping this year so far for Sisters in Loss -What is next for Sisters in Loss?  Our 2021 Summit and Retreat in 2022! This episode is for you to listen to celebrate my birthday and 4 years of podcasting.  Stay tuned until the end of the episode for a special message. For my birthday I would love for you to leave us a fresh review on your podcast medium. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Black Moms in Loss Online Weekly Grief Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

We made it yall! We have made it to the end of the year, and I'm happy to say we made it whole. Many of us started this year with the expectation of greatness. Ambition to take on the world. Start that new business, write that new book, launch that new product, travel to a new country, and just live a life after loss that was unimaginable. Then our world was paused in March as COVID-19 shut down the world, travel, and many businesses especially small businesses. Many of our family and friends have been diagnosed with COVID-19, recovered, or even worse have gone to be angels in heaven. 2020 has been the year of the Unexpected! In this solo episode I talk about the year in review, my personal and professional goals, and my 2021 word of the year.  Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Black Moms in Loss Online Weekly Grief Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

We have entered into a new year, and a new decade.  Another opportunity to live out our purpose for our lives, for our angel babies, and future babies.  It is a time to continue on the journey to healing, restoration, with hope and peace. In today's episode I share my word of the year and a recap of all that was accomplished with Sisters in Loss in 2019 and my goals for 2020 for the podcast and business. Resilience means the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness. the ability of a substance or object to spring back into shape; elasticity. Resilience means knowing how to cope in spite of setbacks, or barriers, or limited resources. Resilience is a measure of how much you want something and how much you are willing, and able, to overcome obstacles to get it. It has to do with your emotional strength. After losing babies many times we don't even know our own strength.  But we keep on getting up, placing our feet on the floor, and pressing on time after time when it gets tough.  We go two steps forward and 3 steps back. We move from trauma to trauma and not realize it until its too late.  We get the positive pregnancy test we had been praying for only to get bad news weeks later. We make it the end of our pregnancy, birth our rainbow baby, and are depressed because we continue to mourn the baby we lost.  When I think of resiliency I think of you. Yes, you girl. Yes, you my Sister in Loss.   You continue to press on, recover quickly, and have the emotional strength to overcome life's obstacles and challenges.  You have made it your mission to help others on this journey. You have dedicated your life back to Jesus to serving him until your husband and future children get here. Resilience is you!  Resilience is me! Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Black Moms in Loss Online Weekly Grief Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

How do you learn how to build life after loss? Today's guest is doing exactly that learning how to rebuild her life after loss by God's grace. Shalika Bethel is an angel mom to two baby boys due to a incompetent cervix. In this episode she takes us on her journey to motherhood, how she has learned to accept her babies are not here physically, and how she is rebuilding by God's grace. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter  

Black women Heal when they are surrounded by other black women. Today's guest truly believes and embodies that motto. Vernetta Stewart, also known as Chef Vernetta is the founder of Footprints of Angels a nonprofit organization aimed to support women impacted by infertility and recurrent miscarriages. This nonprofit organization provides women with support so they can no longer live in silence and shame. In this episode Vernetta takes us on her journey of recurrent miscarriages and becoming the mom of 3 Angel babies. She also shares how her non profit is helping women like her with fertility challenges. This episode is for you to listen to if you want to know what life after loss looks like. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

Can you imagine getting pregnant while on birth control? Today's guest was surprised when she found out she was expecting after having an IUD. Yes, she beat the odds and conceived while on birth control. Jordan Johnson is a United States Naval Officer and moved from DC to CA while pregnant. Two weeks after celebrating her baby shower she ended up in the hospital and the baby did not have a heartbeat. At 29 weeks she was told she would have to deliver her son naturally because he was so big. He came out breech and she experienced PTSD in the delivery room. Jordan shares in this episode how her IUD caused an infection thus causing hemorrhaging around her umbilical cord. In her pregnancy after loss with her daughter she shares the steps the doctors took to ensure her and her baby were safe and healthy. This episode is for you to listen to if you have been on birth control, are currently on birth control, and how her IUD caused infection in her womb. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

Were you apart of the 92%?  I know I was. We have taken the time to grieve, mourn and rest. I decided to get behind the mic today in a solo episode to share my thoughts on Novembers election results and how it plays a role in our collective grieving, collective healing, and my book writing process. What does healing look like? Healing looks like recognizing you are your best thing. Healing also looks like doing so in community.  I see you sis! I hear you sis! I grieve with you sis! Healing doesn't need to be done in isolation. We are never healing alone! Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

Pregnancy after a miscarriage can be filled with many fears, anxious thoughts, and nervousness that you may lose another baby. Today's guest shares how her faith fueled her desire to continue to try again after her miscarriage. Sherita Thompson experienced a miscarriage while on a trip helping friends babysit and was devastated. She returned from her trip and realized she hadn't prayed about it because she was angry and frustrated at herself. In this episode Sherita takes us on her grief journey towards healing, how her faith and prayer helped her conceive her rainbow baby a month after her miscarriage, and encouragement for those moms who are overwhelmed. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a miscarriage and want to know what pregnancy after a miscarriage with faith and prayer is like. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

Can you imagine having a doula and midwife, but still experience a stillbirth? Today's guest had that experience. She was healthy, ate right, worked out consistently, and even worked with a midwife and doula at a birthing center throughout her pregnancy. At 36 weeks after a babymoon life changed for Tierra Hucke. She went to the hospital because she didn't feel the baby move and was told the baby did not have a heartbeat. In this episode she shares her journey through grief, getting pregnant 2 months after loss, and delivery of her rainbow baby 11 months after she lost her son Jameson. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a stillbirth, and want to know what pregnancy after stillbirth journey is like. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

Pregnancy and Infant Loss is not only a United States concern, but it's worldwide. Today's guest is from the continent (yes that continent that many think is a country) Africa. She experienced a stillbirth at 32 weeks in her home country of Zimbabwe. In this episode, Chiedza Makwara shares how pregnancy loss is still a taboo concept in Zimbabwe, how she experienced depression and PTSD after her loss, and how she is using her blog and platform to bring awareness to stillbirth. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

Have you heard of male factor infertility? Male Factor infertility can be caused due to low sperm production, abnormal sperm function or blockages that prevent the delivery of sperm. Illnesses, injuries, chronic health problems, lifestyle choices, and other factors that lead to infertility. Today's guest shares her recurrent miscarriage story and journey where her husband is experiencing secondary infertility by way of male factor. Tamika Henderson had miscarriages in 2016, 2017, and 2018, and it became so routine she knew she was miscarrying. After consulting with a fertility doctor she found out her fertility was due to male factor which was shocking because her husband already had two children. In this episode she takes us back on that journey to healing, and her next steps in her fertility treatments. This episode is for you to listen to if you have never heard of male factor fertility and how it effects a marriage. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

Miscarriage is on the ballot. We are less than one week away from election day on November 5. Have you voted early yet?  Today's episode is a solo episode where I deep dive into the book writing process and detail where I am now in writing Never Healing Alone.  I also discuss how miscarriage is on the ballot. After Roe v. Wade was overturned, the right to abortion access was left up to each state, which allowed states to ban abortion, or allowed existing abortion bans to become law, in places where Roe previously protected our rights. So, while the outcome of the presidential race could have a serious impact on abortion rights nationally, state candidates and ballot initiatives will also have a major influence over abortion access in specific states. Statewide ballot initiatives related to abortion access will be on the ballot in Nebraska, Arizona, Florida, Missouri, Vermont, Montana, South Dakota, Maryland, Colorado, and New York! Please go out and vote and I can't wait to share new updates on my book writing process in 2025. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter  

Have you heard of a transabdominal cerclage?   What is a transabdominal cerclage? A transabdominal cerclage is a small, extremely strong, woven synthetic band stitched high on the cervix. This band supports the full length of the cervix and resists the pressure the growing fetus places on it. The band prevents the cervix from opening and losing the pregnancy.   Today's guest experienced two chemical pregnancies over about a year and a half in the beginning of her marriage. Eventually through medical intervention, Jazmyne Scott was able to get pregnant with her son then she lost him in the second trimester due to incompetent cervix or cervical insuffiency.  She was determined to have her rainbow baby.  Jazmyne took control of her maternal health and researched doctors in Atlanta who could perform a transabdominal cerclage based on her being apart of the Abbyloopers facebook group.     In today's episode Jazmyne takes us on the journey to advocating for herself to get a transabdominal cerclage, getting pregnant with her rainbow baby girl, birthing her baby girl and being a parent after loss. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

Today's guest is a former soldier, life coach, podcaster, and doula.  Mashai Small has a story to tell of how her divine assignment is to give life to her children and others.  She was in the military when she experienced child loss and didn't receive much support.  Mashai turned to the internet to learn how to grieve healthly and to help educate her children about their sibling who transitioned.   In today's episode Mashai discussed her child loss story along with how she has been advocating and fighting the child protective services system for her other children.  We discuss grieving, healing, and how her work as a life coach and doula has helped her advocacy for herself and other families. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

Can you believe this podcast is celebrating 7 years of power and impact? I know I can't at all. We offically hit 7 years of podcasting on August 2, 2024 and I held this news in until the official announcement via Publishers Marketplace.  I got a BOOK DEAL yall!  So much more has happened since I recorded this episode back in July, but the sentiments are the same GO VOTE! This episode is for you to listen to if you want to hear about how I got the book deal and where Sisters in Loss is going in 2025 and beyond.   Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

Abortion and Elective Termination has always been a topic in the US, with many opposing views. Roe v. Wade was a 1973 landmark decision by the US Supreme Court. The court ruled that a state law that banned abortions (except to save the life of the mother) was unconstitutional. The ruling made abortion legal in many circumstances. On June 24, 2022, this Dobbs decision was overturned making abortions illegal in many states even as early as 6 weeks gestation.  Abortion is on the ballot in less than 50 days to election day. In the medical world miscarriages are called spontaneous abortions, and in this community we have to learn how to extend grace to individuals who electively terminate their pregnancies no matter their choice. Today's episode is a solo episode as I am sharing my own personal abortion story.  I have never told this story on this podcast, and wanted to share my truth to release the hurt, embarrassment, and shame I have worked through with therapy and carried around with me so many years.  August 19, 2004 is a day I will never forget.  It is also a day I almost lost my life ten years later giving birth to my rainbow baby boy.   This episode is for you to listen to learn more about the healing that takes place post abortion and loss. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

Abortion and Elective Termination has always been a topic in the US, with many opposing views. Roe v. Wade was a 1973 landmark decision by the US Supreme Court. The court ruled that a state law that banned abortions (except to save the life of the mother) was unconstitutional. The ruling made abortion legal in many circumstances. On June 24, 2022, this Dobbs decision was overturned making abortions illegal in many states even as early as 6 weeks gestation.  Abortion is on the ballot in less than 50 days to election day. In the medical world miscarriages are called spontaneous abortions, and in this community we have to learn how to extend grace to individuals who electively terminate their pregnancies no matter their choice. Join us this month as we explore abortion stories and how healing, grief, and shame can keep all of us bound. When today's guest became pregnant with her daughter she sobbed to a friend “how was she going to take care of one when she had given up another” Latoya Mathews shares her abortion story, how post-partum depression along with guilt and shame of her abortion came alive after having her daughter, and how she has turned her pain into power by helping other post-abortive women eliminate shame, guilt, and regret of their abortions. This episode is for you to listen to if you are ready to release the shame and stigma of having an abortion and want a community to help you. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

Abortion and Elective Termination has always been a topic in the US, with many opposing views. Roe v. Wade was a 1973 landmark decision by the US Supreme Court. The court ruled that a state law that banned abortions (except to save the life of the mother) was unconstitutional. The ruling made abortion legal in many circumstances. On June 24, 2022, this Dobbs decision was overturned making abortions illegal in many states even as early as 6 weeks gestation.  Abortion is on the ballot in less than 50 days to election day. In the medical world miscarriages are called spontaneous abortions, and in this community we have to learn how to extend grace to individuals who electively terminate their pregnancies no matter their choice. Join us this month as we explore abortion stories and how healing, grief, and shame can keep all of us bound. After becoming unexpectedly pregnant at 28 today's guest fell into a deep depression due to the circumstances of her pregnancy. Tiffany Nicole takes us back on the journey toward healing from shame and stigma of abortion, and losing an ex to another woman. This episode is for you to listen to if you have ever been in a situation when you were stressed and depressed it made you physically ill, and how love and therapy can move you out of that depressed state. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

Can you imagine having a doula and midwife, but still experience a stillbirth? Today's guest had that experience. She was healthy, ate right, worked out consistently, and even worked with a midwife and doula at a birthing center throughout her pregnancy. At 36 weeks after a babymoon life changed for Tierra Hucke. She went to the hospital because she didn't feel the baby move and was told the baby did not have a heartbeat. In this episode she shares her journey through grief, getting pregnant 2 months after loss, and delivery of her rainbow baby 11 months after she lost her son Jameson. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced a stillbirth, and want to know what pregnancy after stillbirth journey is like. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook

Pregnancy and Infant Loss is not only a United States concern, but it's worldwide. Today's guest is from the continent (yes that continent that many think is a country) Africa. She experienced a stillbirth at 32 weeks in her home country of Zimbabwe. In this episode, Chiedza Makwara shares how pregnancy loss is still a taboo concept in Zimbabwe, how she experienced depression and PTSD after her loss, and how she is using her blog and platform to bring awareness to stillbirth. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

Have you heard of male factor infertility? Male Factor infertility can be caused due to low sperm production, abnormal sperm function or blockages that prevent the delivery of sperm. Illnesses, injuries, chronic health problems, lifestyle choices, and other factors that lead to infertility. Today's guest shares her recurrent miscarriage story and journey where her husband is experiencing secondary infertility by way of male factor. Tamika Henderson had miscarriages in 2016, 2017, and 2018, and it became so routine she knew she was miscarrying. After consulting with a fertility doctor she found out her fertility was due to male factor which was shocking because her husband already had two children. In this episode she takes us back on that journey to healing, and her next steps in her fertility treatments. This episode is for you to listen to if you have never heard of male factor fertility and how it effects a marriage. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

What does an IVF Pregnancy journey look like after losing your fallopian tubes? Today's guest experienced two ectopic pregnancies that resulted in blood loss but also for her to lose her fallopian tubes.  Britne Taylor lost her fallopian tubes in her first year of marriage and saving for IVF seemed impossible as her job only offered $500 towards fertility benefits.  A few years later she was recommended to become a doula through Sisters in Loss that helped assist her on her healing journey and save for IVF treatments.   In this episode, Britne takes us on her journey of how becoming a doula and supporting over 18 families has healed her and serve as God told her to do while she waited and saved for IVF.  She began her IVF journey in January 2023 and had 1 failed transfer and she is currently at the time we recorded 12 weeks pregnant with her miracle baby girl and she has another girl embryo waiting. We talk about the journey in waiting and how serving others helped her heal but also provided her with tools she is going to use during this pregnancy.  This episode is for you to listen to if you are in your waiting season and want inspiration on hearing a success story and journey.  This is also for you to listen to if you are interested in becoming a Doula and removing whats holding you back from serving others as God has called you to do. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

Have you heard of the term cervical insufficiency? Cervical insufficiency is the inability of the cervix to retain the fetus, in the absence of uterine contractions or labor (painless cervical dilatation), owing to a functional or structural defect. It is cervical ripening that occurs far from the term. Today's guest experienced an insufficient cervix and lost her baby boy Jayden at 17 weeks gestation.  Oneisha Perrotte-Lewis booked her ultrasound for my gender reveal and went to the hospital for a second opinion after noticing a handful amount of blood and a specific pain that she knew wasn't average cramps. Her OBGYN would not listen to her when she let him know numerous times that she was experiencing a lot of pain but he told her that the pain I was experiencing was normal.  She knew in her heart that it wasn't normal. She was actually in pre-term labor and having contractions the entire time.  In this episode Oneisha shares what happened after she birthed Jayden, how his birth inspired her to become a bereavement doula and start the Little Bean Foundation.  Her foundation meant to bring awareness to all types of pregnancy and infant loss, to educate women and men about their bodies, to provide the necessary support as a Bereavement Doula and advocate for future safe, successful and healthier pregnancies. Little Bean Foundation provides a safe space for bereaved parents to be open and vulnerable in order to share their stories about their losses. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced cervical insufficiency or are interested in becoming a Bereavement Doula. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter  

In the medical world miscarriages are called spontaneous abortions, and in this community we have to learn how to extend grace to individuals who electively terminate their pregnancies no matter their choice. Join us this month as we explore abortion stories and how healing, grief, and shame can keep all of us bound. After being diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) today's guest was surprised when she found out she was pregnant and the child's father asked her to terminate the pregnancy. Raina Brown shares intimate details of her choice to terminate her pregnancy, how she conquered grief, and how she is healing by identifying and naming her baby she never had a chance to hold. This episode is for you to listen to if you ever have been in a relationship and had to make a decision that was life altering like deciding to have an abortion. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter  

Imagine at your first doctors appointment being told your baby had fluid around their heart? After being advised to wait until the baby had grown to conduct a full anatomy screening, today's guest was faced with devastating news. Taysha Turman found out at 16 weeks that her baby was diagnosed with hypo-plastic left heart syndrome and a diaphragmatic hernia. The doctors advised her to terminate her pregnancy, but she kept her faith in God and trusted God throughout her pregnancy and birth. Her baby boy had a traumatic birth receiving chest compressions and died 3 months later due to his heart condition. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced child loss and how to find peace after loss. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter  

After being diagnosed at 18 years old with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) today's guest was told she was unable to have children. At 31, Chappy Morgan lost a significant amount of weight and was surprised when she found out she was expecting. During an ultrasound she found out her son was sick and was going to suffer from heart problems specifically congenital heart disease. Chappy shares in this episode how she fought for her son Messiah, is healing from child loss, and continues to share Messiah's message through #MessiahStrong Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter  

Imagine being told that your baby had no fetal heartbeat one month from their due date? Today's guest Tomeka Isaac takes us back to that very moment where she and her husband were faced with the news no parent ever wants to hear that her son Jace was not going to make it. Then they were dealt another blow that she was diagnosed with H.E.L.L.P Syndrome (Hemolysis Elevated Liver Enzymes Low Platelet) which is pre-eclampsia on steroids and she was dying. This episode is for you to listen to if you have never heard of H.E.L.L.P. Syndrome and how God covers you so that you can survive and thrive after a near death birth experience. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter  

Have you ever suffered from painful periods? Today's guest Bria Burrell has always had painful periods, and in 2015 she found out there was an cyst on her left ovarian. Her OB/GYN monitored the cyst for a couple of months, until it started to grow. In order to prevent the cyst from rupturing the OB/GYN performed a laparoscopic procedure in January 2016. . The cyst dominated the left part of Bria's pelvic cavity, and therefore, they had to remove her left ovarian and Fallopian tube, and during this procedure it was determined she had endometriosis. She had many complications from that surgery that left her bowel perforated resulting in her wearing a temporary colostomy bag. Bria takes us on the next steps of her journey to motherhood in this podcast where she undergoes fertility treatments and 2 rounds of IVF, that has resulted in two miscarriages. This episode is for you to listen to if you have been diagnosed with endometriosis or have lost a Fallopian tube or ovary. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter  

Losing your baby and losing your womb and ability to have more children is what today's guest had to face. Alexus Harris Oluyole lost her son Maverick at 21 weeks due to pregnancy complications and had to have a partial hysterectomy to save her life. Alexus Harris Oluyole was devastated as she had to navigate the grief of losing her son and losing her ability to bear more children. God was her anchor during this time and lead her to write a book Peace That Supersedes to help encourage women who are going through challenges with fertility, pregnancy loss, or child loss. In this episode Alexus takes us on her healing journey, the challenges she face with seeing babies everywhere, and her path forward to motherhood. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter  

After experiencing three losses today's guest felt ashamed and guilty of her grief as she experienced secondary infertility with already having two children. Jessica Hortman had a spontaneous miscarriage in 2015 at 6 weeks, a miscarriage due to a submucosal fibroid at 10 weeks in 2016, two years years of not getting pregnant, and then finding out she had a fibroid in 50 percent of my uterus. After having the fibroid removed, Jessica had an ectopic pregnancy in 2018. In today's episode Jessica takes us back on how she navigated her emotions of grief while still being a mother, and how she is overcoming secondary infertility. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter  

What does Life After Baby Loss look like? Feel like? Appear to be for everyone like today's guest. Yonela Resi is the mother of two angels. One baby she loss at 16 weeks and the other a stillbirth at 38 weeks. In this episode she takes us on that journey of becoming a mother at 24 in South Africa, the black community there and how baby loss is not talked about, and how she started the Lakhanya Foundation in honor of her angels. Today's episode is for you to listen to if you have wonder what does life after baby loss look like for me? Today's guest shares exactly what it means to her. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter  

After two miscarriages today's guest experienced preterm labor at 26 weeks. Carrita Flie would not have chosen this journey to motherhood. After her miscarriages, one in the first trimester and one in the second, she was labeled high risk and had to see a specialist weekly when she became pregnant with her rainbow baby. At 21 weeks she was told her cervix was shortened and received a cerclage. Even though Carrita had a cerclage she experienced preterm labor at 26 weeks and her son spent 117 days in the NICU. In this episode she takes us back to how she healed from her miscarriages, going into labor at 26 weeks, and raising a micropreemie. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter  

Have you felt you may never experience motherhood? Today's guest felt exactly that way after experiencing two miscarriages. Jasmine Moore experienced her first miscarriage in 2016 at 11 weeks cause was a blighted ovum. In 2018 she experienced her second miscarriage at 19 weeks due to natural causes. Jasmine takes us back on her journey to motherhood in this episode and shares the pain of not ever experiencing motherhood. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

Being raised in a Christian faith based home, and respecting the unspoken rule of not having children out of wedlock, today's guest began her journey to motherhood at 38 years old. Crystal Justice found out she was pregnant on Aug 9, 2018. On Sept 7, 2018 she was told that the pregnancy was no longer viable. Despite my HCG levels and Progesterone levels being normal her D&C was scheduled on Sept 11, 2018 which is was her partner's birthday. In this episode Crystal takes us back to that day and how her faith has helped her heal from miscarriage. This episode is for you to listen to if you have had a miscarriage, maybe advanced maternal age, and still have the desire to become a mother. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

90% of African Americans women have fibroids and today's guest shares her miscarriage story and rainbow pregnancy with fibroids. Shawn Owens found out she was expecting as she was preparing for an outpatient procedure. She and her husband were shocked by the news due to her diagnosis with uterine fibroids and her being 38 years old. Shawn wanted to wait to share the news with her family around Father's Day. She ended up in the Emergency Room a week before Fathers Day with severe pain and bleeding. The doctors could not detect a heartbeat and sent her home with medication for pain to miscarry with no direction. In today's episode Shawn takes us back to that day and then shares when she was ready to try again to conceive her rainbow baby which pregnancy came with many challenges like bleeding, being placed on bed rest, and not being able to walk due to the size of her 5 fibroids. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

International Bereaved Mother's Day is this upcoming Sunday, May 5, 2024.  This day is for us to show our love for our babies gone to heaven far too soon. Sunday, May 12, 2024 in the US we celebrate Mother's Day. Mother's Day can be very challenging, difficult emotionally, and with social distancing and quarantine can and will be very lonely for many Sisters in Loss. Today's episode is my love letter to you letting you know that You are a Mother! All of the needle pokes, disappointing news, positive and negative pregnancy tests, exciting feelings of baby movement, to holding your baby in your arms after they have taken their last breath made you a mother. Don't let anyone make you feel different on Mother's Day. On Sunday, do what you need to do.  Watch church online, make you a bomb brunch with mimosas, cry hard, stay home, and facetime or houseparty with family and friends will make the day better.  Do it all.  Sunday is your Mother's Day.  You are amazing!  You are brave!  You are beautiful!  You are loved!  You are blessed!  You are a Mom.  Happy Mother's Day Sister in Loss! Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Black Moms in Loss Online Weekly Grief Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

April is Sisters in Loss Infertility Awareness Month!  All month long we will be highlighting infertility stories and journey's.   Black Maternal Health week was April 11-17 and Infertility Awareness Week is April 18-24.  This week we are talking about reproductive health. Did you know that some midwives specialize in high risk births and pregnancy after loss or infertility?  Today's guest is a Certified Nurse Midwife and founder of Sakina Health who partners with birthing families to inspire them to become savvy birthers.  After spending nearly two decades as a midwife with nearly 1000 births in the hospital, birth center, and home, Takiya Ballard knows what it truly means to offer a unique type of healthcare that is unbiased and respectful in every way.  In this episode we deep dive into the State of Black Maternal Health, we discuss the differences between midwifery and doulas, her podcast The Savvy Black Birther, and creating the right birth team for us as black women. This episode is for you to listen to if you want to learn how to create the right birth team for you, the differences of midwifery and doulas, and how you can take control of your reproductive health. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Black Moms in Loss Online Weekly Grief Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

Black birth stories have joy and they also do have trauma.  In today's episode we dive into the creator of the Black Birth Story blog Shayla Brown's own birth story and journey to becoming a mom.  Shayla has been pregnant over 10 times with a few miscarriages and one heterotopic pregnancy that resulted in her losing a fraternal twin ectopically and being currently pregnant with the other twin.  She shares her journey through grieving while mothering and removing negative emotions, recognizing and defining her emotions, and talking through those emotions with trusted professionals and therapist. This episode is for you to listen to if you have experienced loss in between earth side babies and how to manage your emotions through it all. Black birth stories are joyful and we can birth trauma free. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

Parenting after loss is a journey. It's important to make space for conflicting emotions. Don't put pressure on yourself to feel that having another baby will resolve or put an end to the pain of a previous loss. It's okay to feel happiness and sadness at the same time. Life may be moving on, but this doesn't mean you have to let go of a previous loss. In today's episode Helena Morais shares her stillbirth story and pregnancy after loss journey and inspiration for Malia's present.  She lost her daughter Malia due to preclamsia leading to a placenta abruption.  She grieved and tried again and was blessed with her son Arinze.  She shares her journey to healing through her sprituality and developing gifts in honor of her daughter Malia. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

Parenting after loss is a journey. It's important to make space for conflicting emotions. Don't put pressure on yourself to feel that having another baby will resolve or put an end to the pain of a previous loss. It's okay to feel happiness and sadness at the same time. Life may be moving on, but this doesn't mean you have to let go of a previous loss. In today's episode we have Nkemka Egbudo back to share her journey of parenting after loss being a mom to a 1 year old.  We talk about what is like to honor your angel baby and earthly baby and the hopes she has as she parents her daughter but also acknowleding her loss. Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

Below are some coping tips that worked for me on how to Handle the Anxiety, Fear and Stress that comes with Pregnancy After Loss. Focus on one day at a time. Easier said than done, right?  But I always keep my favorite verse with me that  "All things work together for the good of those who are called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28 If God has called you to be a mother especially for you to have another child it will happen, it is his purpose for your life.  I learned to take my pregnancy one day at a time because I celebrated what was good, different, and better about my new pregnancy.  I paid attention to what's going well each day and how I was feeling and how the baby was moving and healthy.  Remember each pregnancy is different, and the fact that you miscarried, had an infant loss or stillbirth does not mean this pregnancy will end that way.   Don't always expect to be happy and joyful all the time - We all have good and bad days when we are not pregnant so don't expect it to be joyful and happy all the time.  Remind yourself that being pregnant again can be a scary experience.   Pray  Journal  Celebrate Milestones Take Care of Yourself  Seek a Therapist, Coach, or Grief Counselor  Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

Congratulations!  You are now pregnant and are ready to embark on another journey of bringing forth life.  It can be a very difficult journey of pregnancy if you are not ready to face fear, anxiety, and any other preconceived feelings of pregnancy after loss. Most women who become pregnant after experiencing miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant death find themselves hit by a flood of different emotions when they first discover that they're pregnant again.  Below are some different emotions you may be feeling throughout your pregnancy and how to deal with them. Mixed Feelings  Hesitation and Detachment  Anxiety concerning the timing of the pregnancy  Guilt  Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter

Are you ready to try to conceive?  Today's episode is a solo episode by Founder Erica Michelle on Trying Again and Making the Decision to try to conceive. Making the decision to try again is not an easy one.  This decision may trigger many different emotions and bring on anxiety, fear, guilt, inadequacy, hopelessness, and a sense of failure.  In this series I plan to equip you with the questions to ask yourself and your partner to prepare your mind, body, and inner self for another pregnancy.   Below are 3 questions you should ask yourself before you and your partner make the decision to begin to actively try to conceive after your loss.   Emotional Stability - Are you emotionally ready for another pregnancy? Working through your grief - Have you taken time to grieve about the death of your baby? Cautious Excitement - Are you mentally prepared for the challenges of a subsequent pregnancy? Become a Sisters in Loss Birth Bereavement, and Postpartum Doula Here Living Water Doula Services Book Recommendations and Links Below You can shop my Amazon Store for the Book Recommendations You can follow Sisters in Loss on Social Join our Healing Collective Online Support Group Join the Sisters in Loss Online Community Sisters in Loss TV Youtube Channel Sisters in Loss Instagram Sisters in Loss Facebook Sisters in Loss Twitter You can follow Erica on Social Erica's Website Erica's Instagram Erica's Facebook Erica's Twitter