Women facing infertility shouldn’t have to bear their struggles in silence. The heartache of miscarriage or the challenge of conceiving can be profoundly devastating. While a single miscarriage is already a painful ordeal, enduring multiple losses is something that no one should have to face. Actress Vanessa Lane recently shared her personal experiences with recurring pregnancy loss and infertility to spark conversation and remind others that they are not alone.
At 44 years old, Lane is candid about her difficulties in trying to conceive with her husband, Marcus Green. The couple, who tied the knot in April 2014, have faced loss almost from the start. “For three years, I’ve felt trapped in my body, trying to get pregnant—whether gearing up for an IVF cycle, in the midst of one, or just coming out of it,” she wrote in her upcoming memoir, Pouring More Wine, shared exclusively with readers of our blog. “I have had eight or nine miscarriages.”
Lane, who is a stepmother to Green’s children from previous relationships—Lucas, Maya, and Jayden—discussed her fertility challenges in a 2015 interview with a popular magazine. “So far, things haven’t gone our way,” she said. “A lot of my friends are in the same boat.”
According to RESOLVE.org, recurrent pregnancy loss—defined as two or more consecutive clinical miscarriages—affects 15-20 percent of women. However, for those who’ve experienced two or more losses, the risk of another miscarriage jumps to around 40%. Overall, about 5% of women will face at least two consecutive miscarriages, and only 1% will experience three or more.
Initially, Lane didn’t envision herself as a mother. “Then I became a stepmom, and it changed everything for me,” she reflected. She also voiced her frustration over the constant questioning about motherhood, noting how people often ask, “Do you want kids?” A lot of women dealing with fertility issues may simply respond with a “no” to avoid explaining their situations, even if those inquiries come from a place of good intentions. “People really mean well, but they often don’t understand the hurt or irritation it can cause,” she explained.
Despite the heartache, Lane and Green maintain a hopeful spirit. They are “overflowing with love and ready to do whatever it takes to welcome the child they’ve always dreamed of.” For those on a similar journey, it’s essential to seek out support and resources, like those available at ACOG, which offers valuable information on fertility treatments. If you’re interested in exploring options, check out this article that dives into home insemination kits, and this link to learn more about couples’ fertility journeys.
To summarize, Vanessa Lane’s story is a testament to resilience in the face of adversity, as she navigates the challenges of infertility while continuing to embrace love and hope for the future.