Why one woman feels 'grateful' after her miscarriage

'I'm grateful that I got to experience the bond that a woman feels the instant she finds out she is growing a little human in her belly'

(Instagram @shellymettling)

Miscarriage and grateful are two words you’d be surprised to find used in the same sentence, but for one woman, losing a child taught her a valuable lesson.

Shelly Mettling has revealed in a heart-breaking Instagram post that she felt “grateful” following the news that she and her husband had miscarried what would’ve been their third child.

Despite initial reactions of anger, sadness and confusion, the fitness entrepreneur said that she is holding on to subsequent feelings of the gratitude she felt two weeks ago, when she first found out that she was pregnant.

The Minnesota-based mother explained that instead of allowing the miscarriage to torment her, she is learning to appreciate the power of motherhood and understanding how adversity can build and test strength.

"There is something #Powerful about understanding when we are powerless..." she told her 14,000 followers.

She added that she is grateful to have a platform on which to share her experience and help other couples who have gone through a miscarriage.

"I'm grateful that I got to experience the bond that a woman feels the instant she finds out she is growing a little human in her belly," she wrote.

"I'm grateful I got to feel the love I was capable of feeling/giving to someone that I had never even met."

Mettling’s followers were quick to offer their support.

“So sorry to hear this – you’re in my prayers,” one wrote.

“No one should have to experience the loss of a child,” another added.

Miscarriages are more common in the UK than people realise, with one in six pregnancies resulting in one, according to the NHS.