Experiences of Australian women on returning to work after miscarriage

ABSTRACT Miscarriage, defined in Australia as spontaneous pregnancy loss occurring before 20 weeks gestation, is the most common adverse pregnancy outcome, occurring in up to one in four pregnancies. Given the frequency of miscarriage and increasing participation of women in the Australian workforce, the aim of this study was to describe women’s experiences of returning to work, including workplace support, following early pregnancy loss. Six hundred and seven women completed a cross-sectional online survey about their experiences returning to work and the workplace support they received following their miscarriage. The majority (84.7%) of participants reported taking leave of a median(IQR) duration of 7(10) days following their miscarriage. Paid leave (sick or annual leave) was the most common type of leave taken, with most (93.3%) respondents indicating that they would take paid bereavement leave if offered. Women’s reasons for disclosing or keeping private their miscarriage overlapped, aligning with the themes of managing their return-to-work experience and workplace culture. Most women reported receiving informal support provided by colleagues and managers. Women affected by miscarriage who were surveyed reported wanting formal leave options to be provided by their workplace and further support, including acknowledgement by managers, human resources and colleagues.