The Prenatal Bombshell

Starred review from April 13, 2015
Azri, a clinical social worker, and Ilse, the author of numerous books for parents dealing with the death of an infant (Empty Arms), approach their subject as professionals, but also as women who have suffered the loss of newborns. They cover the physical and mental states that parents are likely to go through, with plentiful advice ("Save everything, even if you're unsure you will want such mementos later") on taking care of oneself and one's family. The book is divided into two separate sections based on whether parents terminate or continue the pregnancy, as well as a jointly applicable section on how to move on after a difficult diagnosis. They address difficult but important practical considerations in chapters like "If Your Baby Dies." The book's underlying message for parents is to look clearly at what is happening and to accept, not try to deny, the difficult emotions that it will bring. This book is an excellent vehicle for coming to grips with a very difficult situation.