More than 20,000 pregnancies end in stillbirth in the United States each year. These losses are not inevitable. Significant research shows that at least one in four stillbirths in the United States is likely to be preventable, and nearly half of stillbirths when pregnancies last longer than 37 weeks may be preventable.
ProPublica’s new feature-length documentary “Before a Breath” weaves together the stories of three mothers who lost their children to stillbirth and are now working to make their pregnancies safer. Inspired by Doua El-Dave’s groundbreaking reporting that was shortlisted for the Pulitzer Prize, this intimate, angry, and ultimately hopeful film sheds light on the aftermath of stillbirth. I am.
Overview of “Before a Breath”
Other wealthy countries such as the Netherlands, Ireland and Australia have made significant progress in reducing stillbirth rates. However, prevention efforts in the United States are hampered by a lack of data, awareness, autopsy, and research.
“Before a Breath” breaks the silence on America’s stillbirth crisis and shows that change is possible. We hope this book will spark important conversations among expectant parents, health care providers, policy makers, and bereaved families.
The film is scheduled to begin showing nationwide in early 2025. If you or someone you know would like to get involved, by attending or hosting a screening, bringing a film to a university, medical school, or hospital, or collaborating in any other way. , we look forward to hearing from you. We are deeply grateful to the many families, healthcare providers, researchers, and supporters who have made our work possible. Now we need your and your community’s help to spread the word.
Please fill out the form below to let us know how you would like to share your film. We’ll get back to you in the coming weeks with details on how to do this and a guide to planning your screening or event. In the meantime, visit ProPublica’s YouTube channel to check out a sneak peek of “Before a Breath” and meet Kanika Harris, Stephanie Lee, and Debbie Haine Vijayvergiya.
We will contact you.
