Understanding Grief following Pregnancy Loss: A Retrospective Analysis regarding Women's Coping Responses

Abstract

Retrospective grief responses of seven women following an unintended pregnancy loss are reported. Spontaneous fetal loss, miscarriage, and lethal genetic anomalies, all of which occurred during the first and second trimester, were included in the selected sample. Findings from a thematic analysis highlight 10 themes: reactions; attachment; trauma; coping and healing; existential meaning making; perceptions about support; loss factors; environmental factors; social support received; and professional support received. Findings represent the accumulated losses and the manner in which women make meaning and accommodate these experiences within their life narratives.