Core values in midwifery - intensified and deepened: A qualitative study of midwives' experience of meaning when working in a specialised unit for late pregnancy loss

Abstract

Background

Caring for parents bereaved by late pregnancy loss is complex. Healthcare professionals find the work meaningful yet stressful and challenging. Experience, education, and support from colleagues and organisations are essential for professionals working in this field.

Aim

This qualitative study explores the lived experience of meaning in work among midwives employed in a specialised Unit for late pregnancy Loss.

Method

Fourteen interviews were conducted with midwives working at a newly established Unit for Loss at a Danish maternity ward.

Results

Two main themes regarding meaning in work were identified, each with associated subthemes: 1) Core values in midwifery - intensified and deepened; Midwives emphasised the importance of ensuring comforting experiences and memories for parents. This required undisturbed time of “being” with them. The unit's organisational framework allowed time and space to fulfil these core values. The midwives’ work in the Unit for Loss was experienced as intensified and deepend compared to work in maternity wards with live births. 2) Navigating meaning; In some cases, termination of pregnancy brought about ambiguity in meaning, requiring midwives to balance values between the parents' autonomy and the fetus as a human being. The midwives stressed the importance of offering holistic, non-judgmental care and the ability to set aside personal values.

Conclusion

This study highlights the Unit for Loss setting as a time and space for midwives to fulfil meaningful professional core values. The work is perceived as profoundly meaningful, although it sometimes involves internal reflections to navigate values and meaning.