Pregnancy loss: Consequences for mental health

Abstract

Pregnancy loss, in all its forms (miscarriage, abortion, and fetal death), is one of the most common adverse pregnancy outcomes, but the psychological impact of such loss is often underestimated. The individual response to this outcome may vary between women—and could be influenced by age, race, culture, or religious beliefs—but most experience anxiety, stress, and symptoms of depression. Because pregnancy loss is not uncommon, health providers are used to dealing with this diagnosis, however the correct management of the process of diagnosis, information-gathering, and treatment can greatly ameliorate the adverse mental consequences for these women. The aim of this review is to examine the different types of pregnancy loss, and consider how each can influence the mental health of the women affected and their partners—in both the short- and long-term; to review the risk factors with the aim of identifying the women who may be at risk of consequential mental health problems; and to provide some advice for health providers to help these women better cope with pregnancy loss. Finally, we provide some points for health providers to follow in order to aid the management of a pregnancy loss, particularly for spontaneous, induced, or recurrent miscarriage, or stillbirth.

Congenital Anomalies of the Female Genital Tract: A Comprehensive Review

“…Acknowledging and validating these emotions is essential for providing compassionate care. Healthcare providers can play a role in supporting individuals through the grieving process, offering resources for emotional support, and guiding them toward appropriate mental health services [ 47 ].…”

Association between semen parameters and recurrent pregnancy loss: An umbrella review of meta‐analyses

“…3,4 RPL is a significant and distressing life event that can have profound psychological effects on both affected women and their partners. 5,6 Couples who experience RPL are at an increased risk of developing severe symptoms of depression-and anxiety-related disorders, with women being particularly vulnerable. [7][8][9] Therefore, RPL continues to remain a significant challenge in the field of reproductive medicine.…”

“…It affects approximately 1%–2% of couples 3,4 . RPL is a significant and distressing life event that can have profound psychological effects on both affected women and their partners 5,6 . Couples who experience RPL are at an increased risk of developing severe symptoms of depression‐ and anxiety‐related disorders, with women being particularly vulnerable 7–9 .…”

Progesterone in Pregnancy: Evidence-Based Strategies to Reduce Miscarriage and Enhance Assisted Reproductive Technology

“…The incidence of miscarriage in early pregnancy, at 5–20 weeks, is common, with a prevalence of 5–22% of all pregnancies [ 12 ]. Miscarriage can have physical, social, and mental health impacts on women and their families [ 13 ]. In societies such as Taiwan, where the birth rate is falling and life expectancy is increasing, there is concern that factors that reduce birth rates will have detrimental economic and societal effects [ 14 ].…”