Michelle Duggar Miscarries 20th Child

Michelle Duggar recently announced that at the age of 45, she was pregnant with the couple’s 20th child.

The baby was to be due in April, and Michelle and Jim Bob- who are also grandparents to two children of their son Josh and his wife Anna- and the Duggars were ecstatic that after the complicated and dangerous birth of their most recent child Josie, they were expecting again. However, at Michelle’s most recent ultrasound, the couple received some news they say is heartbreaking- the baby’s heartbeat could not be detected, and Michelle had miscarried.

Michelle has suffered one miscarriage in the past, during her second pregnancy. The TV mom blamed birth control pills for the tragedy, and says the loss was one that shaped the family’s decision to no longer use birth control. Michelle confirmed the recent miscarriage, saying:

“After the appointment, we came back home and told the children… We had just been talking about baby names last night and they were getting excited about naming a boy or a girl. It has been a real sad disappointment.”

She continued:

“I feel like my heart broke telling my children. They have all been so excited about this baby and looking forward to April coming around and having a new little one in our arms. That was the most difficult. The Lord is the giver of life and he can choose when that life is ready to go on and be with Him.”

The family says that after they learn the baby’s gender, they will select a name for him or her and plan to have a funeral.