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Disposal arrangements for fetuses lost in the second trimester
G Batcup1, J P Clarke, D W Purdie
1Pathology Department, General Infirmary, Leeds.
British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
|June 1, 1988
Summary
Most UK and Irish hospitals incinerated fetuses lost in the second trimester, with some offering burial, cremation, and bereavement support services for parents.
Area of Science:
- Perinatal Medicine
- Pathology
- Bioethics
Background:
- Second-trimester fetal loss (12-28 weeks gestation) presents unique challenges for healthcare providers and parents.
- Understanding current practices in fetal tissue disposal is crucial for ethical and compassionate care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To survey current methods for the disposal of second-trimester fetuses in the UK and Irish Republic.
- To identify facilities and support services available to parents experiencing fetal loss.
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted in 1986 among 28 consultant pathologists with pediatric or perinatal expertise.
- Data collected focused on fetal disposal methods and parental support facilities in hospitals.
Main Results:
- Over half of surveyed hospitals did not have a single disposal method; incineration was most common.
- Six hospitals exclusively used burial or cremation.
- Support services included photography (25 hospitals), religious services (24 hospitals), remembrance books, and bereavement counselors.
Conclusions:
- Practices for second-trimester fetal loss disposal varied significantly across UK and Irish hospitals in 1986.
- A range of supportive facilities were available to parents, though not universally implemented.