Baby born after pregnancy loss (miscarriage, stillbirth, infant death) - “rainbow after the storm.” Term emerged mid-2000s, gained mainstream awareness 2014-2018 as pregnancy loss conversation became less taboo. Instagram and Pinterest filled with rainbow imagery, photoshoots, and memorial tattoos. Bittersweet joy mixed with grief.

Breaking the Silence

Movement coincided with celebrities sharing loss stories: Chrissy Teigen, Meghan Markle, Michelle Obama. Social media allowed grieving parents to connect and share experiences previously hidden. Rainbow baby announcements acknowledged babies lost while celebrating new life. No longer “replacement” - both children honored.

The Pressure

Some parents felt pressure to be grateful, hide complicated emotions. Anxiety through rainbow pregnancy common - every twinge sparked fear. Support groups formed around rainbow parenting. Critics noted term could inadvertently minimize grief (“at least you got your rainbow”). Complex navigation of joy and trauma simultaneously.

https://www.today.com/parents/what-rainbow-baby-understanding-term-hope-after-loss-t125374