Each year, more than 20,000 pregnancies in the United States end in stillbirth. These losses are inevitable. At least 1 in 4 stillbirths in the US is preventableand in pregnancies lasting 37 weeks or more, nearly half of stillbirths are preventable, according to a key study.
Before Breathing , a new feature documentary from ProPublica, weaves together the stories of three mothers who lost their babies to stillbirths and are now working to make pregnancy safer. Inspired Groundbreaking reporting by Dua Eldeibwhich was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize, this intimate, poignant and hopeful film sheds light on the consequences of stillbirth.
Before a Breath Overview
Other wealthy countries, including the Netherlands, Ireland and Australia, have done so big steps in reducing their stillbirths. But a lack of data, awareness, revelations and research in the US hinders prevention efforts.
Before a Breath breaks the silence surrounding the US stillbirth crisis and demonstrates that change is possible. We hope it will catalyze critical conversations between expectant parents, health professionals, policymakers and families of victims.
Starting in early 2025, we will begin showing the film across the country. If you or someone you know wants to get involved—by attending or organizing a screening, bringing a film to your college, medical school, or hospital, or collaborating in other ways—we want to hear from you. We are incredibly grateful to the many families, healthcare professionals, researchers and advocates who made our work possible. Now we need your help and the help of your communities to spread the word.
Please fill out the form below and tell us how you want to share the film. We’ll be back in the coming weeks with details on how to do this and a guide to planning your screening or event. In the meantime, you can head over to ProPublica’s YouTube channel for previews of “Before a Breath” and meet Kanika Harris, Stephanie Lee and Debbie Hain Vijayvergiya.
We will be in touch.
