In episode 164, Miscarriage Hope Desk founder Allison Schaaf shares some words of encouragement for 2024 and an update on where Miscarriage Hope Desk is headed in the new year. Miscarriage Hope Desk is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and we appreciate your support! >>> support the future of this podcast & DONATE https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=E46AVDBGHUHGU OR https://account.venmo.com/u/miscarriagehopedesk <<< FREE MEAL PLANS Do you need help getting healthy, tasty meals on the table? Check out our sponsor Prep Dish, at http://prepdish.com/mhd, to get 2 weeks FREE! MISCARRIAGE HOPE DESK RESOURCES- Miscarriage Hope Desk aims to help women struggling miscarriage, pregnancy loss and recurrent miscarriages (RPL), by providing the following resources- Mentorship program (FREE!): Reach out to support@miscarriagehopedesk.com if you want to participate as mentor or mentee. Pregnancy After Loss program: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/pal/ Moving Forward Program: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/moving-forward-after-miscarriage-program/ Library of Articles, found here: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/library/understanding-why/ Instagram Community: https://instagram.com/miscarriagehopedesk Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1617075958466247/ Free Miscarriage Lab Checklist: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/labs Free Weekly Newsletter: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/newsletter SHOW NOTES- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/podcast/ Get a FREE Miscarriage Lab Testing Checklist

In episode 163, founder of Miscarriage Hope Desk Allison Schaaf shares words of encouragement in discovering that you never fully recover from a miscarriage loss. Allison discusses freedom she has found in acknowledging that grief doesn’t adhere to timelines or deadlines, and that she will always keep a piece of her miscarriage experiences close to her heart. If you are looking for a mentor, MHD can connect you with a mentor (for free!). Reach out to support@miscarriagehopedesk.com if you want to participate as mentor or mentee. Miscarriage Hope Desk is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and we appreciate your support! >>> support the future of this podcast & DONATE https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=E46AVDBGHUHGU OR https://account.venmo.com/u/miscarriagehopedesk <<< FREE MEAL PLANS Do you need help getting healthy, tasty meals on the table? Check out our sponsor Prep Dish, at http://prepdish.com/mhd, to get 2 weeks FREE! MISCARRIAGE HOPE DESK RESOURCES- Miscarriage Hope Desk aims to help women struggling miscarriage, pregnancy loss and recurrent miscarriages (RPL), by providing the following resources- Pregnancy After Loss program: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/pal/ Moving Forward Program: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/moving-forward-after-miscarriage-program/ Library of Articles, found here: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/library/understanding-why/ Instagram Community: https://instagram.com/miscarriagehopedesk Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1617075958466247/ Free Miscarriage Lab Checklist: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/labs Free Weekly Newsletter: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/newsletter SHOW NOTES- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/podcast/ Get a FREE Miscarriage Lab Testing Checklist

In episode 162, founder of Miscarriage Hope Desk Allison Schaaf speaks about emotions after miscarriage and notes that sometimes it may feel as if no one really understands exactly where you’re coming from. Infertility struggles are such distinctive situations and it may be hard for someone outside of that vantage point to understand. Allison offers an uplifting reminder that it’s ok if someone else doesn’t truly comprehend your unique perspective. If you are looking for a mentor, MHD can connect you with a mentor (for free!). Reach out to support@miscarriagehopedesk.com if you want to participate as mentor or mentee. Miscarriage Hope Desk is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and we appreciate your support! >>> support the future of this podcast & DONATE https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=E46AVDBGHUHGU OR https://account.venmo.com/u/miscarriagehopedesk <<< FREE MEAL PLANS Do you need help getting healthy, tasty meals on the table? Check out our sponsor Prep Dish, at http://prepdish.com/mhd, to get 2 weeks FREE! MISCARRIAGE HOPE DESK RESOURCES- Miscarriage Hope Desk aims to help women struggling miscarriage, pregnancy loss and recurrent miscarriages (RPL), by providing the following resources- Pregnancy After Loss program: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/pal/ Moving Forward Program: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/moving-forward-after-miscarriage-program/ Library of Articles, found here: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/library/understanding-why/ Instagram Community: https://instagram.com/miscarriagehopedesk Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1617075958466247/ Free Miscarriage Lab Checklist: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/labs Free Weekly Newsletter: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/newsletter SHOW NOTES- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/podcast/ Get a FREE Miscarriage Lab Testing Checklist

In episode 161, Miscarriage Hope Desk founder Allison Schaaf talks about the importance of personal mentorship after miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss. If you are looking for a mentor, MHD can connect you with a mentor (for free!). Reach out to support@miscarriagehopedesk.com if you want to participate as mentor or mentee. Miscarriage Hope Desk is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and we appreciate your support! >>> support the future of this podcast & DONATE https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=E46AVDBGHUHGU OR https://account.venmo.com/u/miscarriagehopedesk <<< FREE MEAL PLANS Do you need help getting healthy, tasty meals on the table? Check out our sponsor Prep Dish, at http://prepdish.com/mhd, to get 2 weeks FREE! MISCARRIAGE HOPE DESK RESOURCES- Miscarriage Hope Desk aims to help women struggling miscarriage, pregnancy loss and recurrent miscarriages (RPL), by providing the following resources- Pregnancy After Loss program: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/pal/ Moving Forward Program: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/moving-forward-after-miscarriage-program/ Library of Articles, found here: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/library/understanding-why/ Instagram Community: https://instagram.com/miscarriagehopedesk Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1617075958466247/ Free Miscarriage Lab Checklist: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/labs Free Weekly Newsletter: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/newsletter SHOW NOTES- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/podcast/ Get a FREE Miscarriage Lab Testing Checklist

In episode 160, Miscarriage Hope Desk founder Allison Schaaf talks about the practice of gratitude, and how much she appreciates each and every one of the members of this community. Thank you for all of your presence and support! Allison shares a simple way she has incorporated a practice of gratitude into her everyday life and offers tips to add this healthy habit to your daily rhythm, even amidst the challenging moments. ‌ Miscarriage Hope Desk is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, if you feel called to to help, reach out- support@miscarriagehopedesk.com >>> support the future of this podcast & DONATE https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=E46AVDBGHUHGU OR https://account.venmo.com/u/miscarriagehopedesk <<< We appreciate your support! We’ve opened up our mentorship program to ALL for the month of October 2023, reach out- support@miscarriagehopedesk.com if you want to participate as mentor or mentee. MISCARRIAGE HOPE DESK RESOURCES- Miscarriage Hope Desk aims to help women struggling miscarriage, pregnancy loss and recurrent miscarriages (RPL), by providing the following resources- Pregnancy After Loss program: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/pal/ Moving Forward Program: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/moving-forward-after-miscarriage-program/ Library of Articles, found here: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/library/understanding-why/ Instagram Community: https://instagram.com/miscarriagehopedesk Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1617075958466247/ Free Miscarriage Lab Checklist: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/labs Free Weekly Newsletter: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/newsletter FREE MEAL PLANS Do you need help getting healthy, tasty meals on the table? Check out our sponsor Prep Dish, at http://prepdish.com/mhd, to get 2 weeks FREE! SHOW NOTES- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/podcast/ Get a FREE Miscarriage Lab Testing Checklist

In episode 159, Allison Schaaf shares her experience with investing in lab work after recurrent miscarriages to provide peace of mind that she was able to do everything possible and address any underlying issues. Allison highlights listening to your own instincts regarding the tests, giving yourself some grace, and taking ownership of noting and recording results to discuss with your doctor(s). Miscarriage Hope Desk is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and we appreciate your support! >>> support the future of this podcast & DONATE https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=E46AVDBGHUHGU OR https://account.venmo.com/u/miscarriagehopedesk <<< FREE MEAL PLANS Do you need help getting healthy, tasty meals on the table? Check out our sponsor Prep Dish, at http://prepdish.com/mhd, to get 2 weeks FREE! MISCARRIAGE HOPE DESK RESOURCES- Miscarriage Hope Desk aims to help women struggling miscarriage, pregnancy loss and recurrent miscarriages (RPL), by providing the following resources- Pregnancy After Loss program: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/pal/ Moving Forward Program: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/moving-forward-after-miscarriage-program/ Library of Articles, found here: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/library/understanding-why/ Instagram Community: https://instagram.com/miscarriagehopedesk Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1617075958466247/ Free Miscarriage Lab Checklist: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/labs Free Weekly Newsletter: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/newsletter SHOW NOTES- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/podcast/ Get a FREE Miscarriage Lab Testing Checklist

In episode 158, Miscarriage Hope Desk founder Allison Schaaf shares how to find your support team after miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss. Miscarriage Hope Desk is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and we appreciate your support! >>> support the future of this podcast & DONATE https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=E46AVDBGHUHGU OR https://account.venmo.com/u/miscarriagehopedesk <<< FREE MEAL PLANS Do you need help getting healthy, tasty meals on the table? Check out our sponsor Prep Dish, at http://prepdish.com/mhd, to get 2 weeks FREE! MISCARRIAGE HOPE DESK RESOURCES- Miscarriage Hope Desk aims to help women struggling miscarriage, pregnancy loss and recurrent miscarriages (RPL), by providing the following resources- Pregnancy After Loss program: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/pal/ Moving Forward Program: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/moving-forward-after-miscarriage-program/ Library of Articles, found here: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/library/understanding-why/ Instagram Community: https://instagram.com/miscarriagehopedesk Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1617075958466247/ Free Miscarriage Lab Checklist: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/labs Free Weekly Newsletter: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/newsletter SHOW NOTES- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/podcast/ Get a FREE Miscarriage Lab Testing Checklist

In episode #157, Erin Iwanusa, LCSW, CDWF and advisor for Miscarriage Hope Desk shares more of her personal struggles with pregnancy loss and building a family. We get into many aspects of mental health, including giving yourself time to grieve and setting boundaries during the holidays. Erin was also on the MHD podcast, episode #47. CONNECT WITH ERIN - https://www.instagram.com/themiscarriagetherapist/ https://www.themiscarriagetherapist.com/ Miscarriage Hope Desk is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, if you feel called to to help, reach out- support@miscarriagehopedesk.com >>> support the future of this podcast & DONATE https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=E46AVDBGHUHGU OR https://account.venmo.com/u/miscarriagehopedesk <<< We appreciate your support! MISCARRIAGE HOPE DESK RESOURCES- Miscarriage Hope Desk aims to help women struggling miscarriage, pregnancy loss and recurrent miscarriages (RPL), by providing the following resources- Pregnancy After Loss program: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/pal/ Moving Forward Program: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/moving-forward-after-miscarriage-program/ Library of Articles, found here: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/library/understanding-why/ Instagram Community: https://instagram.com/miscarriagehopedesk Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1617075958466247/ Free Miscarriage Lab Checklist: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/labs Free Weekly Newsletter: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/newsletter FREE MEAL PLANS Do you need help getting healthy, tasty meals on the table? Check out our sponsor Prep Dish, at http://prepdish.com/mhd, to get 2 weeks FREE! SHOW NOTES- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/podcast/ Get a FREE Miscarriage Lab Testing Checklist

In episode 156, Miscarriage Hope Desk founder Allison Schaaf is personally inviting you to find time to get away if you are struggling with infertility, miscarriage or recurring pregnancy loss. Miscarriage Hope Desk is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, if you feel called to to help, reach out- support@miscarriagehopedesk.com >>> support the future of this podcast & DONATE https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=E46AVDBGHUHGU OR https://account.venmo.com/u/miscarriagehopedesk <<< We appreciate your support! We’ve opened up our mentorship program to ALL for the month of October 2023, reach out- support@miscarriagehopedesk.com if you want to participate as mentor or mentee. MISCARRIAGE HOPE DESK RESOURCES- Miscarriage Hope Desk aims to help women struggling miscarriage, pregnancy loss and recurrent miscarriages (RPL), by providing the following resources- Pregnancy After Loss program: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/pal/ Moving Forward Program: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/moving-forward-after-miscarriage-program/ Library of Articles, found here: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/library/understanding-why/ Instagram Community: https://instagram.com/miscarriagehopedesk Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1617075958466247/ Free Miscarriage Lab Checklist: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/labs Free Weekly Newsletter: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/newsletter FREE MEAL PLANS Do you need help getting healthy, tasty meals on the table? Check out our sponsor Prep Dish, at http://prepdish.com/mhd, to get 2 weeks FREE! SHOW NOTES- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/podcast/ Get a FREE Miscarriage Lab Testing Checklist

In episode 155, Miscarriage Hope Desk founder Allison Schaaf shares encouragement and a reminder that you are not alone in your fertility struggles with miscarriage and recurrent pregnancy loss. Miscarriage Hope Desk is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, if you feel called to to help, reach out- support@miscarriagehopedesk.com >>> support the future of this podcast & DONATE https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=E46AVDBGHUHGU OR https://account.venmo.com/u/miscarriagehopedesk <<< We appreciate your support! We’ve opened up our mentorship program to ALL for the month of October 2023, reach out- support@miscarriagehopedesk.com if you want to participate as mentor or mentee. MISCARRIAGE HOPE DESK RESOURCES- Miscarriage Hope Desk aims to help women struggling miscarriage, pregnancy loss and recurrent miscarriages (RPL), by providing the following resources- Pregnancy After Loss program: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/pal/ Moving Forward Program: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/moving-forward-after-miscarriage-program/ Library of Articles, found here: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/library/understanding-why/ Instagram Community: https://instagram.com/miscarriagehopedesk Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1617075958466247/ Free Miscarriage Lab Checklist: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/labs Free Weekly Newsletter: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/newsletter FREE MEAL PLANS Do you need help getting healthy, tasty meals on the table? Check out our sponsor Prep Dish, at http://prepdish.com/mhd, to get 2 weeks FREE! SHOW NOTES- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/podcast/ Get a FREE Miscarriage Lab Testing Checklist

In episode 154, Miscarriage Hope Desk founder Allison Schaaf shares 7 ideas for healing after miscarriage and pregnancy loss Forgive Yourself Therapy (esp EMDR) Spiritual/ Religious Connection Connect with Spouse Nutrition Movement Journaling Miscarriage Hope Desk is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, if you feel called to to help, reach out- support@miscarriagehopedesk.com >>> support the future of this podcast & DONATE https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=E46AVDBGHUHGU OR https://account.venmo.com/u/miscarriagehopedesk <<< We appreciate your support! We’ve opened up our mentorship program to ALL for the month of October 2023, reach out- support@miscarriagehopedesk.com if you want to participate as mentor or mentee. MISCARRIAGE HOPE DESK RESOURCES- Miscarriage Hope Desk aims to help women struggling miscarriage, pregnancy loss and recurrent miscarriages (RPL), by providing the following resources- Pregnancy After Loss program: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/pal/ Moving Forward Program: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/moving-forward-after-miscarriage-program/ Library of Articles, found here: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/library/understanding-why/ Instagram Community: https://instagram.com/miscarriagehopedesk Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1617075958466247/ Free Miscarriage Lab Checklist: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/labs Free Weekly Newsletter: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/newsletter FREE MEAL PLANS Do you need help getting healthy, tasty meals on the table? Check out our sponsor Prep Dish, at http://prepdish.com/mhd, to get 2 weeks FREE! SHOW NOTES- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/podcast/ Get a FREE Miscarriage Lab Testing Checklist

In episode #153, Miscarriage Hope Desk founder, Allison Schaaf talks about her perspective on grief and the idea that grief is seasonal. Resources discussed in this episode include the journal “One Line A Day: A Five-Year Memory Book”, the book “Life is in the Transitions: Mastering Change at Any Age” by Bruce Feiler and “Redeeming Your Timeline” by Troy Brewer. We’ve opened up our mentorship program to ALL for the month of October 2023, reach out- support@miscarriagehopedesk.com if you want to participate as mentor or mentee. >>> support the future of this podcast & DONATE https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=E46AVDBGHUHGU OR https://account.venmo.com/u/miscarriagehopedesk <<< We appreciate your support! We’ve opened up our mentorship program to ALL for the month of October 2023, reach out- support@miscarriagehopedesk.com if you want to participate as mentor or mentee. MISCARRIAGE HOPE DESK RESOURCES- Miscarriage Hope Desk aims to help women struggling miscarriage, pregnancy loss and recurrent miscarriages (RPL), by providing the following resources- Pregnancy After Loss program: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/pal/ Moving Forward Program: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/moving-forward-after-miscarriage-program/ Library of Articles, found here: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/library/understanding-why/ Instagram Community: https://instagram.com/miscarriagehopedesk Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1617075958466247/ Free Miscarriage Lab Checklist: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/labs Free Weekly Newsletter: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/newsletter FREE MEAL PLANS Do you need help getting healthy, tasty meals on the table? Check out our sponsor Prep Dish, at http://prepdish.com/mhd, to get 2 weeks FREE! SHOW NOTES- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/podcast/ Get a FREE Miscarriage Lab Testing Checklist

In episode #152, Miscarriage Hope Desk founder, Allison Schaaf, shares an exciting update- Miscarriage Hope Desk is now a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, if you feel called to to help, reach out- support@miscarriagehopedesk.com >>> support the future of this podcast & DONATE https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=E46AVDBGHUHGU <<< We appreciate your support! We’ve opened up our mentorship program to ALL for the month of October 2023, reach out- support@miscarriagehopedesk.com if you want to participate as mentor or mentee. MISCARRIAGE HOPE DESK RESOURCES- Miscarriage Hope Desk aims to help women struggling miscarriage, pregnancy loss and recurrent miscarriages (RPL), by providing the following resources- Pregnancy After Loss program: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/pal/ Moving Forward Program: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/moving-forward-after-miscarriage-program/ Library of Articles, found here: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/library/understanding-why/ Instagram Community: https://instagram.com/miscarriagehopedesk Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1617075958466247/ Free Miscarriage Lab Checklist: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/labs Free Weekly Newsletter: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/newsletter FREE MEAL PLANS Do you need help getting healthy, tasty meals on the table? Check out our sponsor Prep Dish, at http://prepdish.com/mhd, to get 2 weeks FREE! SHOW NOTES - https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/podcast/ Get a FREE Miscarriage Lab Testing Checklist

In episode 151, Miscarriage Hope Desk founder Allison Schaaf shares that the podcast will take a break for August and September. Make sure to check out our past episodes and the many resources linked below in the meantime! Have a topic you’d like us to cover in future episodes? Let us know! Reach out here: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/contact/ ‌ TOPICS DISCUSSED: Miscarriage Hope Desk LINKS IN THIS EPISODE Contact us w/ topic ideas or questions: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/contact/ MISCARRIAGE HOPE DESK RESOURCES- Miscarriage Hope Desk aims to help women struggling miscarriage, pregnancy loss and recurrent miscarriages (RPL), by providing the following resources- Library of Articles, found here- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/library/understanding-why/ Instagram Community- https://instagram.com/miscarriagehopedesk Facebook Community- https://www.facebook.com/groups/1617075958466247/ Free Miscarriage Lab Checklist- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/labs Free Weekly Newsletter- http://miscarriagehopedesk.com/newsletter FREE MEAL PLANS Do you need help getting healthy, tasty meals on the table? Check out our sponsor Prep Dish, PrepDish.com/mhd to get 2 weeks FREE! SHOW NOTES- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/podcast/ Get a FREE Miscarriage Lab Testing Checklist- http://MiscarriageHopeDesk.com/labs

In episode 150, Miscarriage Hope Desk founder Allison Schaaf shares 10 questions to ask when deciding between medical miscarriage and natural miscarriage. Allison has experienced both of these scenarios so these questions come from her personal experience in making this difficult choice. 10 Questions to Ask: 1. Have I already started miscarrying? 2. How far along is the pregnancy? 3. What is your doctor recommending? 4. Am I experiencing any debilitating pregnancy symptoms? 5. What are the risks of using medication versus miscarrying naturally? 6. Do you have any special circumstances that might lead to medical miscarriage vs miscarrying on your own? 7. What might be the emotional impact of your decision? 8. Do I know what miscarriage would look like if I go with natural miscarriage versus using medication? 9. What fears do I have regarding using the medication? 10. What fears do I have regarding natural miscarriage / expectant management? Bonus Question: What feels right to me? TOPICS DISCUSSED: Medical Miscarriage, Natural Miscarriage, Expectant Management, Cytotec LINKS IN THIS EPISODE Article on Natural Miscarriage vs D&C: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/dc-vs-a-natural-miscarriage/ Article on Medicated Miscarriage (Misoprostol / Cytotec) vs Natural Miscarriage: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/medication-vs-a-natural-miscarriage-10-questions-to-ask/ MISCARRIAGE HOPE DESK RESOURCES- Miscarriage Hope Desk aims to help women struggling miscarriage, pregnancy loss and recurrent miscarriages (RPL), by providing the following resources- Library of Articles, found here- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/library/understanding-why/ Instagram Community- https://instagram.com/miscarriagehopedesk Facebook Community- https://www.facebook.com/groups/1617075958466247/ Free Miscarriage Lab Checklist- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/labs Free Weekly Newsletter- http://miscarriagehopedesk.com/newsletter FREE MEAL PLANS Do you need help getting healthy, tasty meals on the table? Check out our sponsor Prep Dish, PrepDish.com/mhd to get 2 weeks FREE! SHOW NOTES- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/podcast/ Get a FREE Miscarriage Lab Testing Checklist- http://MiscarriageHopeDesk.com/labs

In episode 149, Miscarriage Hope Desk founder Allison Schaaf shares 10 questions you should ask when trying to decide between a D&C and a natural miscarriage / expectant management. Use these questions to guide a discussion with your doctor to make the best decision for you. ‌ Have I already started miscarrying? How far along is the pregnancy? What is my doctor recommending? Am I experiencing any debilitating pregnancy symptoms? What are the risks of the D&C vs miscarrying naturally? Consider if you have any special circumstances? How might your decision impact you emotionally? What does the recovery look like? What fears do I have surrounding D&C? What fears do I have surrounding a natural miscarriage? Bonus Question: What feels right to me? TOPICS DISCUSSED: D&C, Miscarriage, Natural Miscarriage, Expectant Management LINKS IN THIS EPISODE Article on Natural Miscarriage vs D&C: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/dc-vs-a-natural-miscarriage/ Article on Medicated Miscarriage (Misoprostol / Cytotec) vs Natural Miscarriage: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/medication-vs-a-natural-miscarriage-10-questions-to-ask/ MISCARRIAGE HOPE DESK RESOURCES- Miscarriage Hope Desk aims to help women struggling miscarriage, pregnancy loss and recurrent miscarriages (RPL), by providing the following resources- Library of Articles, found here- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/library/understanding-why/ Instagram Community- https://instagram.com/miscarriagehopedesk Facebook Community- https://www.facebook.com/groups/1617075958466247/ Free Miscarriage Lab Checklist- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/labs Free Weekly Newsletter- http://miscarriagehopedesk.com/newsletter FREE MEAL PLANS Do you need help getting healthy, tasty meals on the table? Check out our sponsor Prep Dish, PrepDish.com/mhd to get 2 weeks FREE! SHOW NOTES- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/podcast/ Get a FREE Miscarriage Lab Testing Checklist- http://MiscarriageHopeDesk.com/labs

In episode 148, Miscarriage Hope Desk founder Allison Schaaf shares her experience with the adoption process. Here are some tips and considerations to keep in mind if you’re thinking of adopting: 1. Find someone in your local community to talk to. Adoption laws and procedures vary by area. Ask around to find someone local to talk to if you can. 2. Domestic versus International This is a big consideration but I don’t have a lot of expertise here as I’ve only experienced domestic adoption. 3. Who to work with You’ll have to complete a home study and profile book and then work with someone, an adoption agency or consultancy or attorney, to adopt. We’re working with FAC, Faithful Adoption Consultants, right now. 4. Home Study Process The entire home study process can take several months. Be prepared for a lot of paperwork and remember that this process is in place to protect children. I find that perspective helps. I try to get started right away on the more time consuming parts of the process, like the background check. Setting up a physical can also take awhile. You also need to consider that the home study paperwork needs to be completed for all adults living in the house. 5. Letters of Reference Start asking for reference letters early so people aren’t rushed. 6. Profile Book This is basically a photo book showing your family. It’s a way to present your family as an option to the birth mom. I recommend having a photo shoot because there are lots of specific photos required. There are photographers who specifically create profile books for adoption which can be really helpful. I recommend starting this as soon as possible because it can take awhile to get the photos back. 7. Applications After the home study, you’ll fill out applications with adoption agencies. 8. Speak up If you have questions, make sure to speak up. No one else is going to make sure that you’re doing everything you need to do so you have to take that on. TOPICS DISCUSSED: Adoption process, home study, adoption agencies LINKS IN THIS EPISODE Ep5 - Allison’s Adoption Story with Ivan https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/ep5/ Ep141 - Is adoption right for you? https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/ep141/ Trello project management software: trello.com Adoption Continuing Education: https://www.creatingafamilyed.org/pages/adoption-courses MISCARRIAGE HOPE DESK RESOURCES- Miscarriage Hope Desk aims to help women struggling miscarriage, pregnancy loss and recurrent miscarriages (RPL), by providing the following resources- Library of Articles, found here- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/library/understanding-why/ Instagram Community- https://instagram.com/miscarriagehopedesk Facebook Community- https://www.facebook.com/groups/1617075958466247/ Free Miscarriage Lab Checklist- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/labs Free Weekly Newsletter- http://miscarriagehopedesk.com/newsletter FREE MEAL PLANS Do you need help getting healthy, tasty meals on the table? Check out our sponsor Prep Dish, PrepDish.com/mhd to get 2 weeks FREE! SHOW NOTES- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/podcast/ Get a FREE Miscarriage Lab Testing Checklist- http://MiscarriageHopeDesk.com/labs

In episode 147, Miscarriage Hope Desk founder Allison Schaaf shares tips on how to find real joy in the first trimester after miscarriage. Allison’s 7 Tips for Finding Joy in the 1st Trimester After Loss: 1. Mantras: “Today I am pregnant” is a mantra that works well for me. 2. Journaling: I will sometimes write out my negative thoughts and then burn the paper. I also love journaling my mantras and affirmations, as well as gratitude journaling. The Pregnancy After Loss program includes journal prompts for the week. 3. Find Specific Ways to Add Joy: What would have filled you with joy if you hadn’t had a loss? Make a list and see if you can allow those joyful moments, whether it’s buying a new maternity dress or calling your sister to tell her you’re pregnant. Find ways to celebrate. 4. Find a Pregnancy Book that Speaks to You: There are so many out there, look for one that will inspire joy in you. 5. Work with a Therapist: I’ve worked with therapists during my first trimesters and they’ve given me so many tools that have helped me through the difficult moments of my fertility journey. 6. Meditation and Breathing Exercises: Specifically, Holosync meditations have been really relaxing and helpful. 7. Find a mentor: Having someone who has been through loss before who you can reach out to can make a huge difference. TOPICS DISCUSSED: Pregnancy After Loss, Pregnancy Journaling, Breathing Exercises for Pregnancy, Therapy for Pregnancy After Loss, Joy After Miscarriage LINKS IN THIS EPISODE Ep 132 - Pregnancy Journaling in Pregnancy After Loss: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/ep132/ Ep 133 - A Second Pregnancy After Loss - Staying Positive and Finding Joy: https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/ep-133-a-second-pregnancy-after-loss-staying-postive-finding-joy/ Holosync Mediations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HwgqDEA7zLA MISCARRIAGE HOPE DESK RESOURCES- Miscarriage Hope Desk aims to help women struggling miscarriage, pregnancy loss and recurrent miscarriages (RPL), by providing the following resources- Library of Articles, found here- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/library/understanding-why/ Instagram Community- https://instagram.com/miscarriagehopedesk Facebook Community- https://www.facebook.com/groups/1617075958466247/ Free Miscarriage Lab Checklist- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/labs Free Weekly Newsletter- http://miscarriagehopedesk.com/newsletter FREE MEAL PLANS Do you need help getting healthy, tasty meals on the table? Check out our sponsor Prep Dish, PrepDish.com/mhd to get 2 weeks FREE! SHOW NOTES- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/podcast/ Get a FREE Miscarriage Lab Testing Checklist- http://MiscarriageHopeDesk.com/labs

In episode 146, Miscarriage Hope Desk founder Allison Schaaf talks about the importance of including regular breathwork sessions to find a sense of calm in difficult times. She walks you through a simple breathing exercise and discusses how breathwork has helped her on her fertility journey. TOPICS DISCUSSED: Breathwork, Breathwork Session, Finding Calm LINKS IN THIS EPISODE Breathe: The New Science of a Lost Art: https://www.amazon.com/Breath-New-Science-Lost-Art/dp/0735213615/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Breathe+New+Science+Lost+Art&qid=1688032582&sr=8-1 MISCARRIAGE HOPE DESK RESOURCES- Miscarriage Hope Desk aims to help women struggling miscarriage, pregnancy loss and recurrent miscarriages (RPL), by providing the following resources- Library of Articles, found here- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/library/understanding-why/ Instagram Community- https://instagram.com/miscarriagehopedesk Facebook Community- https://www.facebook.com/groups/1617075958466247/ Free Miscarriage Lab Checklist- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/labs Free Weekly Newsletter- http://miscarriagehopedesk.com/newsletter FREE MEAL PLANS Do you need help getting healthy, tasty meals on the table? Check out our sponsor Prep Dish, PrepDish.com/mhd to get 2 weeks FREE! SHOW NOTES- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/podcast/ Get a FREE Miscarriage Lab Testing Checklist- http://MiscarriageHopeDesk.com/labs

In episode #145, Dr. Julie Bindeman shares her expertise on bereavement and workplace leave policies related to miscarriage. We talk about the current availability of leave allowed for pregnancy loss, how grief can impact us in the workplace, and what we can do to advocate for change. Dr. Julie Bindeman graduated from the George Washington University and is the co-owner of Integrative Therapy of Greater Washington in Rockville, Maryland. Her specialty is in the field of Reproductive Psychology, where she actively writes, lectures, and presents. She is an approved consultant in EMDR through EMDRIA. She has served on several committees within the Mental Health Professional Group of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine and was elected in 2021 to its Executive Committee. She served as a former Board Member of the Maryland Psychological Association for over 10 years. Dr. Bindeman is a member of multiple organizations focused on Maternal and Reproductive Mental Health and was appointed by the Governor of Maryland to serve on its Maternal Mental Health Task Force. She was recently awarded the Karl Heiser Award for her legislative efforts on behalf of psychology. Dr. Bindeman has published several chapters and articles pertaining to Reproductive Psychology. Topics Discussed: Bereavement leave, Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), short-term disability, effects of grief in the workplace, how to advocate for flexible leave policies, post-traumatic growth ‌ CONNECT WITH DR. BINDEMAN - www.GreaterWashingtonTherapy.com instagram.com/drjuliebindeman twitter.com/drjulieb ‌ MISCARRIAGE HOPE DESK RESOURCES- Miscarriage Hope Desk aims to help women struggling miscarriage, pregnancy loss and recurrent miscarriages (RPL), by providing the following resources- Library of Articles, found here- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/library/understanding-why/ Instagram Community- https://instagram.com/miscarriagehopedesk Facebook Community- https://www.facebook.com/groups/1617075958466247/ Free Miscarriage Lab Checklist- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/labs Free Weekly Newsletter- http://miscarriagehopedesk.com/newsletter FREE MEAL PLANS Do you need help getting healthy, tasty meals on the table? Check out our sponsor Prep Dish, PrepDish.com/mhd to get 2 weeks FREE! SHOW NOTES- https://miscarriagehopedesk.com/podcast/ Get a FREE Miscarriage Lab Testing Checklist- http://MiscarriageHopeDesk.com/labs