Exploring Parental Needs in the Year Following Perinatal Loss.

Abstract

Purpose: To explore parents' holistic needs in the year after a perinatal loss experience.

Study design and method: We used Wagner's Chronic Disease Model viewed through a holistic lens as a theoretical framework for this qualitative descriptive study. Wagner's five domains of chronic care (evidence-based practice, empowerment, collaboration, connection, assessment) and the five aspects of holistic care (physical, psychological, social, spiritual, cultural) were used as a priori categories and subcategories throughout data analysis. Holistic themes were organized into the domains of the chronic care model to identify participants' supportive needs throughout the progression of the year.

Results: Ten women who experienced perinatal loss from miscarriage, stillbirth, termination, and congenital anomalies were interviewed. Participant needs were primarily physical (bleeding, lactation) in the days following perinatal loss and transitioned into psychosocial and spiritual needs (navigating relationships, understanding grief, subsequent pregnancy) as time progressed. Participants overwhelmingly expressed a desire for continued professional support following their loss experience. Wagner's Model provides a framework to inform evidence-based recommendations for assessing and addressing parents' holistic needs with a collaborative approach to foster connection.

Implications for practice: Despite the ongoing needs of many grieving parents after perinatal loss, follow-up care is not standard practice. Adverse biopsychosocial outcomes associated with perinatal loss are well documented. The prevention of chronic biopsychosocial health conditions following perinatal loss requires a strategic, multiprofessional approach. Study findings may provide a framework for implementing follow-up care in the year after perinatal loss.