HEALTH by Sarah Stacey

HELP AFTER MISCARRIAGE

Sadly, one in four pregnancies ends in miscarriage. It happens mostly before 14 weeks, although it can often happen past that point too. It is now recognised that women who lose babies to miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy (which affects one in 90) may be at risk of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and need more emotional support than that currently given.

In the first study on the issue, nearly four in ten (38 per cent) of 113 women who had suffered a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy met the criteria for PTSD three months after the loss of their baby. They reported regularly re-experiencing feelings associated with the loss.

Some had nightmares and flashbacks, while others avoided anything that might remind them, such as pregnant family or friends.

Dr Jessica Farren of Tommy’s National Centre for Miscarriage Research at Imperial College London, who led the study, said: ‘At present, there is no routine follow-up for women who have suffered a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy. We have checks for postnatal depression, but nothing for the trauma and depression following pregnancy loss.’ Tommy’s CEO Jane Brewin is calling for ‘added impetus to change miscarriage treatment and care. Many women need more support,’ she says. ‘We need to rethink how women are treated throughout the experience, so they do not suffer from PTSD and other psychological impacts.’

The Miscarriage Association of Ireland (miscarriage.ie, 01 873 5702) is a valuable source of information and support for both partners, including suggestions on how to talk about it with family, friends and children.