Waiting

"Waiting" is an in-depth examination of one woman's experiences of pregnancy and miscarriage. This journal, kept by author Ellen Judith Reich through her third pregnancy, reflects upon two previous miscarriages. She explores not only the terror that can accompany the prospect of becoming a mother, but the loss of innocence and fear of future loss that haunt any woman who has miscarried. Reich focuses on grief and hope and on learning to cope with change and loss of control. She has recorded her thoughts and expectations about motherhood, children, being in control and being betrayed by her body. She reveals much by examining the vivid dreams she had during pregnancy and recounting conversations with family, friends, health care professionals and other grieving parents. This personal book should be read by any woman contemplating motherhood, particularly career women who, having postponed childbearing to establish their careers, face a greater likelihood of miscarriage and/or infertility. And women who have already experienced miscarriage may come away from "Waiting" with a sense of renewed optimism and a feeling of not being so alone with their pain. This book may also be interesting reading for obstetricians, family practitioners and their staffs and medical students who can glean an insight in the emotional aspects of miscarriage, helping them to better understand their patients' needs and concerns. Counsellors and therapists may also benefit from reading this book.