Personal Loss and Grief Experiences of Healthcare Personnel in Pre- and Perinatal Care: A Review of Literature

Abstract

Pre- and perinatal loss and grief tend to be referred to as complicated grief denoting the experience of ongoing trauma. It is considered a burden for the affected parents, their families and the helping professionals alike. Yet this phenomenon remains an underrepresented field in analytical studies. Our aim is to systematically review the literature that deals with personal grief caused by pre- and perinatal loss - as experienced by healthcare staff. We shall present a comprehensive view of relevant international and national attitudes including existing grief management options. The above-mentioned complex issue deserves greater attention, which should result in the establishment of dynamic, up-to-date support programmes on all professional levels.