Midwives holding the space for women undergoing termination of pregnancy: A qualitative inquiry

Hospital midwives are the main care givers for women undergoing termination of pregnancy after 20 weeks. Midwives' role and potential impact of regular involvement in termination of pregnancy (TOP) are poorly understood.

New Zealand.

TOP after 20 weeks may be performed to save a woman's life or preserve her physical and mental health. Throughout the process midwives play a key role in supporting women's complex psychological and clinical needs.

To gain a deeper understanding of the role of midwives in TOP care after 20 weeks, including the support they might need and the impacts caring for women who are having a TOP may have on them.

Eight midwives from two District Health Boards were interviewed about their experiences of caring for women having a TOP after 20 weeks. Transcripts were analysed by applying a hermeneutic-phenomenological lens.

Three themes emerged: "A different kind of midwife", "Staying true to oneself" and "Melting an Iceberg". TOP care is a different role within midwifery as midwives facilitate death in the space of birth. Immersing themselves in women's emotional space they create meaningful connections to support their complex needs and provide a positive birth experience. Yet, midwives are unprepared for the emotional effects of repeatedly caring for women undergoing TOP. Lacking appropriate support they can experience increasing, lasting grief.

Midwives' experiences of providing TOP care are complex, intense and have lifelong impact. Their role in the context of TOP is highly specialised and must be valued and supported.