Reproductive Losses

It isn't often that academic texts hold the potential to move the reader in the ways that Reproductive Losses does. Given the topic, the book is moving in expected ways: the narratives included are those of loss, trauma, and discrimination. Yet the book is also moving for the sensitive and heartfelt attention that Craven gives to the narratives. Further, the book is moving for the commitment that Craven displays to honouring diversity, for holding loss and growth in tension, and for a commitment to social change. Reproductive Losses is thus a book that should sit on the shelves of everyone working in the fields of gender, sexuality, reproduction. -Damien W. Riggs, PhD, Psychology, Flinders University, psychotherapist, author (with Clemence Due) of A Critical Approach to Surrogacy In Reproductive Losses: Challenges to LGBTQ Family-Making, Christa Craven provides a captivating exposure of the invisible injuries of being female, black and lesbian in America. The intimate and courageous accounts, along with extensive research shed light on how the tentacles of institutional racism and sexism have consequential effects on black lesbian women simply trying to build a family. But there is much more that is exposed and explored. Dr. Craven's insightful examination of the layered issues provides a taste of the constant barrage of assault on the physical and psychological state of the women in pursuit of family making who are often left asking, was it homophobia or just insensitivity? However, the thoughtful and real accounts steeped in culture and history are also filled with a sense of hope, determination, and strength. The book's narratives and conclusions are integrated into a highly researched literary structure and are written in a style which is relatable for an audience wider than the LGTBQ community. It is certain to advance awareness for anyone interested in woman's health and the needed change in the health care system for this target group. -Lisa Paisley-Cleveland, PhD, LCSW, Sociology, Hunter College, author of Black Middle-Class Women and Pregnancy Loss In anthropologist Christa Craven's new book, previously invisible and silenced queer experiences of reproductive loss are meticulously researched and thoughtfully presented. Craven's work is a significant step forward in the conversation on reproductive justice and LGBTQ rights as it calls out the deafening heteronormativity around loss of a child during pregnancy, birth, or adoption. This book and its companion website should be required reading for anyone who wishes to explore the complexities of mourning, grief, reproductive loss, and queer resiliency. -Cara Bergstrom-Lynch, PhD, Sociology, Eastern Connecticut University, author of Lesbians, Gays, and Bisexuals Becoming Parents or Remaining Childfree Craven brings forth seldom told narratives of struggle and loss in LGBTQ family building, bringing to light the totality of our experiences, providing validation, affirming our humanity, and giving our care providers a road map to support us-a must read for anyone who works with queer and transgender parents, and a vital resource for any LGBTQ parent-to-be experiencing reproductive loss. -Kristin Kali, Owner and Licensed Midwife at MAIA Midwifery & Fertility, professional trainer and consultant specializing in LGBTQ family building and gender inclusivity