What did the Queen's University Belfast study find about miscarriage?

The QUB study found that over 800 women in Northern Ireland reported feelings of isolation and guilt following miscarriage, often due to social stigma and inadequate support.

Why do women blame themselves after a miscarriage?

Miscarriages often have no identifiable cause, leading women to question their actions and blame themselves, especially after repeated losses.

What support is available for women after miscarriage in Northern Ireland?

The study indicates that while some healthcare professionals offer support, services are often overstretched, highlighting a need for more resources and training.

Home / Health / Pregnancy Loss Study Reveals Isolation and Guilt

Pregnancy Loss Study Reveals Isolation and Guilt

29 Nov

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Summary

Over 800 women in Northern Ireland participated in a study on pregnancy loss.
Study participants reported feelings of isolation and guilt after miscarriage.
Women experiencing multiple losses showed higher distress levels.

Pregnancy Loss Study Reveals Isolation and Guilt

A significant study conducted by Queen's University Belfast has shed light on the emotional toll of pregnancy loss, with over 800 women in Northern Ireland participating. Findings reveal that many women grapple with feelings of isolation and guilt, often stemming from societal stigma and insufficient support systems. These emotions can be particularly intense for those who have experienced more than one miscarriage.

Dr. Áine Aventin from QUB noted that the lack of identifiable causes for miscarriage can lead women to self-blame. Questions like 'Am I exercising wrong?' or 'Did I have a glass of wine?' are common internal dialogues, fostering guilt. The study also found that distress levels are significantly higher among women with multiple pregnancy losses, emphasizing the cumulative impact.

While acknowledging the dedication of midwives and bereavement nurses, the study points to overstretched services needing more resources. Dr. Aventin stressed the importance of sensitive communication and compassion, highlighting that even without a visible baby, a pregnancy loss is a profound grief. Personal anecdotes illustrate the deep need for healthcare professionals to understand and acknowledge the significance of this loss for affected women.

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