Family care in the context of perinatal loss
perceptions of bereaved mothers
Keywords:
Bereavement, Humanization of assistance, Mental health, StillbirthAbstract
Objective: To develop a theoretical–practical quality care framework for families experiencing perinatal loss, grounded in international guidelines and maternal experience reports. Method: This study derives from the doctoral research “Gestação Subsequente à Perda Perinatal: Análise dos resultados de um Programa de Pré-Natal Psicológico” (Pregnancy Following Perinatal Loss: Analysis of the Outcomes of a Psychological Prenatal Care Program), conducted between 2022 and 2023. It included 15 pregnant women, from the 12th week of gestation onward, with an obstetric history of stillbirth. A qualitative method was employed, using open interviews based on the “life history” approach and content analysis to categorize meaningful expressions, drawing an analogy with the Six ‘R’ Processes of Mourning classification model: Recognizing the loss; Reacting to the separation; Recollecting the loss; Relinquishing the maternal role; Readjusting to the new situation; Reinvesting/Resignifying. Results: The analysis yielded the following categories, recommended for the theoretical–practical framework of care in the context of perinatal loss: Supportive reception and respectful attitude; Clear and comprehensible communication with informed choice; Individualized care adapted to personal needs; Best practices of care across different contexts; Ongoing care and support and Qualification of care. Conclusion: The themes that emerged provide guidance for the implementation of clinical guidelines and practices focused on individualized care, with the potential to positively impact the experiences of women and families following perinatal loss. It is concluded that two challenges are particularly relevant in this context: the qualification of care and the provision of sufficient emotional support to health professionals.
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