Early pregnancy loss: men have feelings too

Abstract

Early pregnancy loss occurs in one in four pregnancies. The role of men, as they share the feelings and try to support their partners, has received little attention. Utilizing a phenomenological approach, the aim of this study was to describe the experience of early miscarriage from a male perspective. It suggests that at least for these men, miscarriage is a difficult and painful situation. In addition to coping with their own feelings, which may not be acknowledged, they have to cope with the feelings and grief of their partner. Effective intervention should be based on an awareness of the effect that early miscarriage has on both partners. Midwives and other practitioners can make a difference to a couple's experience by increasing their understanding of their needs.