Perinatal Grief

Perinatal grief is dealt with on many different levels.

 Approximately one in four mothers/families experiencing a loss appear significantly upset by the loss.  However, the majority are quite upset and have different needs and issues that need to be addressed. One cannot necessarily assume that a loss in early pregnancy is less devastating than a loss of a term pregnancy. Each loss, regardless of the age when the loss occurred, is a difficult time for these mothers.  Some families with early losses are just as devastated as those who lose at term or shortly after birth.  Bonding with their baby most often starts from the time they realize they are pregnant. This is loss is no different than losing another family member, for many people.

  Each situation has to be dealt with on a personal level and has to encompass all the family members affected by the loss. Is this their first baby?  How are they dealing with things?  Who is there to support them?  How are the support people dealing with the loss?  Are their other siblings that need consideration? Are there cultural and/or religious beliefs that need to be taken into consideration? Do they wish to bury/cremate their baby? This may even be the case with very early losses. What might we give them for keepsakes?  Most families are very grateful for whatever we are able to give them to treasure the memory of their baby.

No matter how many years pass, they never seem forget their baby/babies or the event of the loss.  We, as caring, compassionate staff will also be part of that memory. Meeting the needs of the mother and family when the loss occurs is crucial to their dealing with the loss. This is the time to relax visiting hours or visitation guidelines, and give this family the time they need. Being open minded and willing to meet the needs of these special patients is essential.

Cindy Rogerson RN, Bereavement Coordinator