We didn't deserve this: bereavement associated with multifetal reduction

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine
• Maternal-Fetal Medicine
• Psychology of Pregnancy

Background:

• Rising incidence of higher-order multiple pregnancies necessitates interventions like multifetal reduction.
• Limited understanding exists regarding the lived experiences and decision-making processes of women considering this procedure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the decision-making experiences of women who underwent or decided against multifetal reduction.
• To identify the emotional and psychological effects associated with the decision-making process.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study involving in-depth interviews with seven women.
• Phenomenological approach to capture the subjective experiences of participants.

Main Results:

• Participants described profound, multi-layered experiences of bereavement.
• A pervasive sense of loss was reported, extending from conception through delivery and early parenting.
• Women expressed feelings that their pregnancies lacked natural progression due to medical interventions.

Conclusions:

• The decision regarding multifetal reduction is emotionally taxing, involving complex grief.
• Healthcare providers should acknowledge and support the multifaceted bereavement experienced by these women.
• Further research is needed to develop comprehensive psychosocial support strategies.