Melinda Stolp has revealed she suffered a pregnancy loss. The reality star, known for her time on shows like The Real World and The Challenge, opened up about the subject on Instagram. She explained that she went in for her 20-week ultrasound appointment three weeks ago only to learn she lost the baby.
“No woman should have to go through this pain,” she wrote in the image shared with her 23,000 followers, PEOPLE Magazine reports. She added a heartbreak emoji in the caption. Melinda also opened up about the impact the miscarriage has had on her husband, Matt Collins, “Even though my husband wasn’t carrying or delivering her, this was his baby too and I know he is hurting as much as I am.”
In the post, which was made on Wednesday, Melinda explained that she had to deliver her baby the day prior despite the loss. “I had to endure the pain of contractions and a full delivery to my precious baby girl and then not take her home with us,” the reality star continued.
On Thursday, Melinda shared a follow-up post in which she thanked her followers for their support following her announcement. She described herself as feeling “raw” as she noted that her stomach was deflating. The MTV star acknowledged other women who had experienced pregnancy losses, though she said she wouldn’t be replying to direct messages for the time being.
Melinda and Matt originally announced they were expecting a second child this past February. Melinda shared a sweet image to her Instagram feed showcasing an ultrasound photo surrounded by a series of girly items, including a pink Minnie Mouse headband, baby shoes, and a tiny princess carriage. The photo also included a small calendar revealing Melinda’s August due date.
The couple are already parents to their 16-month-old son Camden, whom they welcomed in November 2019. Melinda opened up about needing a c-section following her delivery. Sharing to social media, the reality star also added that her husband was a “rock” during the experience.
A miscarriage occurs when a pregnancy is lost before the 20th week of pregnancy, whereas a stillbirth refers to a loss that occurs after the 20th week. The exact cause of pregnancy losses is unknown, though research has suggested genetic or chromosomal issues as well as underlying conditions and lifestyle habits may play a role, Healthline reports. Citing the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the publication adds that miscarriages affect an average of ten percent of pregnancies.
Sources: Instagram @melindastolpmtv, PEOPLE Magazine, Healthline,