The Brink of Being: Talking About Miscarriage

by Julia Bueno

Drawing on historical and medical research, personal experience and the stories of numerous families, Julia Bueno explores the physical and mental toll of miscarriage at all stages of pregnancy as well as the medical interventions and decisions that need to be taken.

288 pages, Paperback

Published May 7, 2020

Reviews

[Ally]

Really great book. I bought this as I wanted to know hood to support a friend who has experienced miscarriage. This book has increased my understanding so much, both about what physically happens, emotional experiences of miscarriage and how to avoid saying unhelpful things. The chapters are detailed with accounts of clients the author (a psychotherapist) has seen, her own personal experience and also interesting historical and cultural information about parenthood and pregnancy. The book felt very well researched, though often drawing attention to how limited the current research is. Experiences of women in same sex relationships were given a good amount of space, might have been nice to have more on other diverse experiences. Very accessible read, would recommend to anyone wanting to be more informed. Some of the personal accounts are naturally graphic so people with personal experience will have to judge if they feel ready to read this.

[Rose]

As a doctor and a woman who has never experienced pregnancy loss, this book gave me such a valuable insight into what this can mean for women and families, and how the speech and actions of family, friends and medical staff can have a huge and (unfortunately) often negative impact. I would feel much more equipped to talk to and support a friend who is navigating pregnancy loss and I can imagine that reading this book would be validating for women who have experienced this and haven’t been able to share their grief with others. I would recommend this to all people.

[Beth Kelsall]

Honest and eye opening. I was recommended this by my supervisor as I have some client work that touches on this topic. It has broadened how I would approach this topic with both a client and friends. It’s not an easy read, but it remains curiously readable, if that makes sense! I would recommend this to anyone who has a connection to the topic, particularly in a supporting role.