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Wang S, Wang Y, Tong L, Zhuang J, Xu D, Wu Y. Association between pregnancy loss and depressive symptoms in women: a population-based study. BMC Psychiatry 2024; 24:526. [PMID: 39044239 PMCID: PMC11267727 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-024-05948-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression is a common mental disorder with a much higher prevalence in women than in men. Although there has been a gradual increase in research on the association between reproductive health and depression, there is still some inconsistency in the evidence of the relationship between pregnancy loss and depression. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between pregnancy loss and depressive symptoms. METHODS We analyzed data from the 2007-2020 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), which included female participants aged 20 to 80 years. Pregnancy loss was determined based on participants' self-reported number of pregnancies and pregnancy outcomes. Depressive symptoms were measured using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9, score ≥ 10). Multivariate logistic regression, smoothed curve fitting, and generalized additive modeling were used to examine the association between pregnancy loss and depression. We also performed sensitivity analyses and subgroup analyses to verify the robustness and specificity of the findings. RESULTS A total of 12,873 female participants were included in our study, of which 1,595 (12.39%) were categorized as depressed. Multivariate logistic regression results indicated that experiencing a pregnancy loss increased the risk of prevalence of depression in women (for 1 loss: OR = 1.31, 95% CI 1.15,1.50; for 2 or more losses: OR = 1.58, 95% CI 1.38, 1.81). When sensitivity analyses were performed, an association between pregnancy loss and depression was found in both multivariate linear regressions with PHQ-9 scores as a continuous variable and multivariate logistic regressions with a threshold of 5 PHQ-9 scores. The association between pregnancy loss and depression remained stable across subgroups. CONCLUSION Pregnancy loss correlated with elevated PHQ-9 scores and a heightened risk of depression in adult women across the United States. Focusing on the incidence of adverse pregnancy events in the female population may help prevent or early recognize the onset of depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Wang
- Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction Research, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, 1000 Hefeng Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214000, P.R. China
| | - Yuan Wang
- Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction Research, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, 1000 Hefeng Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214000, P.R. China
| | - Ling Tong
- Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction Research, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, 1000 Hefeng Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214000, P.R. China
| | - Jiaru Zhuang
- Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction Research, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, 1000 Hefeng Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214000, P.R. China
| | - Dewu Xu
- Department of Medical Education, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, 1000 Hefeng Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214000, P.R. China.
| | - Yibo Wu
- Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction Research, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, 1000 Hefeng Road, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214000, P.R. China.
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Lloyd CA, Hutti MH. Grief intensity following adolescent miscarriage or abortion: A descriptive study of recollections of adult women. Heliyon 2024; 10:e33634. [PMID: 39071695 PMCID: PMC11283081 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e33634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective The purpose of this study was to examine women's recollected lifespan perceptions of the effect of grief intensity following adolescent perinatal death. Participants Nineteen adult women who had experienced either a miscarriage or an abortion during adolescence. The study involved the recollection of events surrounding the experience which had occurred between three and 28 years previously. Methods A 55-item online survey was used to gather recollected perceptions of adolescent miscarriage and abortion experiences. The Perinatal Grief Intensity Scale was embedded within this survey. The participants were instructed to recall their responses to the perinatal loss at the time of the event as an adolescent (T1; Time 1) and how they feel currently as adults about their previous adolescent perinatal death (T2; Time 2). Data were collected at both T1 and T2. The Perinatal Grief Intensity Scale is accompanied by an appropriately weighted Excel scoring sheet which was utilised to analyse the data at both T1 and T2. Results As adolescents, participants perceived similar high and medium grief intensity when compared by type of loss (miscarriage, n = 6; abortion, n = 6). However, more women who had an abortion (n = 5) experienced low grief intensity compared with participants who had a miscarriage (n = 2). As adults, participants continued to perceive similar high and medium grief intensity when compared by type of loss (miscarriage, n = 6; abortion, n = 5). In addition, women who had an abortion continued to experience more low grief intensity (n = 6) compared with participants who had a miscarriage (n = 2). Approximately one quarter of adult female respondents, 26 % (n = 5) exhibited increased grief intensity as measured by the scores over time. Thirty seven percent (n = 7) exhibited no change in scores, and 37 % (n = 7) exhibited decreased scores over time in response to adolescent miscarriage or abortion. Conclusions Support for the adoption of the Perinatal Grief Intensity Scale to identify women in need of follow-up for grief intensity after an adolescent miscarried or terminated pregnancy is evident. The results of this study have demonstrated that grief can resurge or appear in adult females as they respond to events across the lifespan, including further reproductive experiences. Therefore there is a compulsion for health care professionals to identify women at risk of intensive grief responses due to previous contributory events. Tweetable abstract Healthcare providers should screen adult women who have experienced a previous adolescent miscarriage or termination for adverse mental health issues in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marianne H. Hutti
- College of Nursing, University of Kentucky, KY, USA
- Ambulatory Services, University of Kentucky (UK) Healthcare, KY, USA
- School of Nursing, University of Louisville, KY, USA
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Atashsokhan G, Farjamfar M, Khosravi A, Taher M, Keramat A. Desired Care for Perinatal Bereavement: Meeting the Needs of Mothers After Discharge From the Hospital-a Qualitative Study. INQUIRY : A JOURNAL OF MEDICAL CARE ORGANIZATION, PROVISION AND FINANCING 2024; 61:469580231223763. [PMID: 38339829 PMCID: PMC10859064 DOI: 10.1177/00469580231223763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the understanding and experiences of mothers who have suffered perinatal loss regarding their needs after being discharged from the hospital. Data were collected through semi-structured face-to-face and telephone interviews using purposive sampling with maximum diversity. The sample included 15 mothers and 6 midwives who had experienced fetal loss and perinatal bereavement. The interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Conventional content analysis was used to analyze the data. Sampling was conducted from July 2022 to March 2023, continuing until data saturation was reached. The study identified 2 main categories of needs for mothers who have experienced perinatal loss: continuous healthcare (including the Comprehensive Mother Tracking System, provision of psychological welfare, and educational needs) and provision of a support network, including "spouse and family support" and "peer and colleague support." The primary theme of this study was "Deliberating Care for Grieving Mothers." The study results indicate that mothers who experience perinatal loss require continuity of care after being discharged. Psychological screening and counseling support are essential for both parents. Considering the significant impact of spousal, familial, and community support on an individual's life, it is crucial to prepare the community to comprehend and embrace grieving parents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giti Atashsokhan
- Student Research Committee, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Maryam Farjamfar
- Center for Health Related Social and Behavioral Sciences Research, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Ahmad Khosravi
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Mahboobe Taher
- Department of Psychology, Shahrood Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahrood, Iran
| | - Afsaneh Keramat
- Department of Reproductive Health, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
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Riddle JN, Hopkins T, Yeaton-Massey A, Hellberg S. No Baby to Bring Home: Perinatal Loss, Infertility, and Mental Illness-Overview and Recommendations for Care. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2023; 25:747-757. [PMID: 37878138 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-023-01469-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Update readers on the state of the research on mental health, perinatal loss, and infertility with a focus on providing a comprehensive overview to empower clinicians in treating this population. RECENT FINDINGS Rates of psychiatric illness are increased in people that experience perinatal loss and infertility. The research remains largely below the clear need for focused screening, prevention, and treatment. Clinicians and researchers need to remain attuned to the impact of perinatal loss and infertility on the mental health of patients and families. Screening, referral, and expanded therapeutic and psychiatric resources are imperative to improving the well-being of these patients and families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia N Riddle
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, USA.
| | - Tiffany Hopkins
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Amanda Yeaton-Massey
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Samantha Hellberg
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Xu X, Zou X, Tang R, Jiao K, Qian W, Shen X, Wang J, Skritskaya NA. Latent class analysis of grief-related beliefs among recently bereaved adults. Scand J Psychol 2023; 64:552-562. [PMID: 36998193 DOI: 10.1111/sjop.12916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
Grief-related beliefs play an important role in bereavement adjustment. This study aimed to investigate the patterns and correlates of grief-related beliefs among recently bereaved adults (n = 311). Latent class analysis results suggested three meaningful grief belief classes could be identified: the High grief belief class (24.1%), Predominantly counterfactual thoughts class (42.4%), and Low belief class (33.4%). Members in the High grief belief class reported the highest levels of grief symptoms, depression and PTSD symptoms, loneliness, and functional impairment. Compared with the Low belief class, unmarried people, people in poor health, individuals who lost parents, partners, or children, and those who experienced violent or unexpected death were more likely to belong to the High grief belief class. Findings of this study support the importance of examining grief-related cognitions in research and clinical practice, especially counterfactual thoughts about the death, which may need to be specifically screened and targeted in treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Xu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University China, Beijing, China
| | - Xinyan Zou
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University China, Beijing, China
| | - Renzhihui Tang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University China, Beijing, China
| | - Keyuan Jiao
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wenli Qian
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University China, Beijing, China
| | - Xinlan Shen
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University China, Beijing, China
| | - Jianping Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University China, Beijing, China
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Buskmiller C, Grauerholz KR, Bute J, Brann M, Fredenburg M, Refuerzo JS. Validation of a Brief Measure for Complicated Grief Specific to Reproductive Loss. Cureus 2023; 15:e37884. [PMID: 37214013 PMCID: PMC10199718 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.37884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Complicated grief reactions follow some pregnancy outcomes, like miscarriage, stillbirth, neonatal death, infant death, selective reduction, or termination of pregnancy. Stigma can delay treatment and worsen outcomes. Screening tools such as the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale detect complicated grief poorly, and specific tools for prolonged or complicated grief after a reproductive loss are cumbersome. In this study, a five-item questionnaire to detect complicated grief after reproductive loss of any type was designed and preliminary validated. Methods A questionnaire patterned after the extensively validated Brief Grief Questionnaire (BGQ) was created by a group of physicians and lay advocates to employ non-traumatic but specific language related to grief after miscarriage, stillbirth, neonatal death, infant death, selective reduction, or termination of pregnancy. One hundred and forty women at a large academic center were recruited in person and via social media to validate the questionnaire with well-studied instruments for anxiety (7-item Panic Disorder Severity Scale, PDSS), trauma (22-item Impact of Events Scale), and reproductive grief and depressive symptoms (33-item Perinatal Grief Scale [PGS]). Results The response rate was 74.9%. Of the 140 participants, 18 (12.8%) experienced their loss during high-risk pregnancies, and 65 (46.4%) were recruited via social media. Seventy-one (51%) respondents had a score > 4, a positive screen for the BGQ. On average, women experienced their loss 2 years prior to participation (IQR 1-5 years). Cronbach's alpha was 0.77 (95% CI: 0.69-0.83). The goodness of fit indices of the model met Fornell and Larker criteria (RMSEA = 0.167, CFI = 0.89, SRMR = 0.06). The AVE was 0.42 and the CR 0.78. Conclusions This investigator-created screening tool is internally consistent and meets preliminary criteria for discriminant validity. This tool can be refined prior to testing for sensitivity and specificity in screening for complicated grief after a reproductive loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cara Buskmiller
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USA
| | | | - Jennifer Bute
- Communication, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI), Indianpolis, USA
| | - Maria Brann
- Communication Studies, Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, USA
| | | | - Jerrie S Refuerzo
- Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston McGovern Medical School, Houston, USA
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Moreira D, Azeredo A, Sá Moreira D, Fávero M, Sousa-Gomes V. Why Does Grief Hurt? EUROPEAN PSYCHOLOGIST 2022. [DOI: 10.1027/1016-9040/a000490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Abstract. Grief is a major physical and psychological health concern for adults, as well as a key risk factor for depression. The direct and indirect costs of depression in adults place heavy burdens on societal resources. Indeed, bereavement is a stressful and profound life experience, with the grieving process combining reactions to a loss that may originate in complications for bereaved individuals. The goal of this systematic review is to synthesize the findings regarding depression and grief. Studies related to the topic were obtained from multiple databases through rigorous exclusion and inclusion criteria. Only empirical studies with quantitative methodologies were included. Objectives, sample (type of sample, % male, and age), instruments, and main conclusions were extracted from each study. Overall, there are personality and contextual factors that, in addition to affecting depressive reactions following a loss, may also interface with one’s ability to grieve. Furthermore, after the patient’s death, there was a decrease in depressive symptoms over time, indicating that these symptoms are dynamic. Individuals who experience prolonged grief exhibit depressive symptoms, and those who suffer a loss may have depressive symptoms, but in a natural and non-pathological way, that is, sadness and not depression. Depression tends to decrease over time, with the existence of more children and a focus on occupation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Moreira
- Laboratory of Neuropsychophysiology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Porto, Portugal
- Centre for Philosophical and Humanistic Studies, Faculty of Philosophy and Social Sciences, Universidade Católica Portuguesa, Portugal
- Institute of Psychology and Neuropsychology of Porto – IPNP Health, Portugal
- Centro de Solidariedade de Braga/Projecto Homem, Portugal
| | - Andreia Azeredo
- Laboratory of Neuropsychophysiology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Porto, Portugal
| | - Diana Sá Moreira
- Institute of Psychology and Neuropsychology of Porto – IPNP Health, Portugal
- Social and Behavioral Sciences Department, University Institute of Maia, Portugal
| | - Marisalva Fávero
- Social and Behavioral Sciences Department, University Institute of Maia, Portugal
- Unit I&D of the Justice and Governance Research Center of the Law School, University of Minho (JusGov/UM), Portugal
| | - Valéria Sousa-Gomes
- Institute of Psychology and Neuropsychology of Porto – IPNP Health, Portugal
- Social and Behavioral Sciences Department, University Institute of Maia, Portugal
- Unit I&D of the Justice and Governance Research Center of the Law School, University of Minho (JusGov/UM), Portugal
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Nunes Maia G, Ruschel Bandeira D, Centenaro Levandowski D. Associations of Losing a Child With the Couple Relationship, Maternal Mental Health, and the Emotional Development of the Subsequent Baby. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2022:302228221143821. [PMID: 36476190 DOI: 10.1177/00302228221143821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
The loss of a child can impact maternal mental health and the emotional development of a subsequent baby. Couple relationship can help women to cope with this loss. This study investigates the association among child loss, maternal mental health (including prolonged grief), couple adjustment, and psycho-functional symptoms in the subsequent babies. 598 Brazilian mothers, recruited by convenience, took part in the study. Mothers with a baby loss (23%) presented greater age and religiosity, less income, a longer couple relationship, and better couple adjustment, and their baby presented a great number of symptoms. This population needs monitoring for early emotional assistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Nunes Maia
- Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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Sun S, Hao Y, Qian J, Wang F, Sun Y, Yu X. Incidence and predictors of paternal anxiety and depression following fetal abnormalities requiring pregnancy termination: a cross-sectional study in China. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:440. [PMID: 35619057 PMCID: PMC9134591 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-022-04739-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND China is a country with a high prevalence of fetal abnormalities. Termination of pregnancy for fetal abnormalities (TOPFA) is a devastating traumatic event for parents and families, resulting in serious and lasting psychological problems. The impact of TOPFA on mothers has been extensively explored, but little research has been conducted on the resulting paternal psychological problems. This study sought to determine the prevalence and predictors of paternal anxiety and depression following TOPFA. METHODS We analysed cross-sectional data from 169 Chinese couples (169 mothers and 169 fathers) who experienced TOPFA. Anxiety was assessed with the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), and depression was measured with the Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) for fathers and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) for mothers. We used the Social Support Rating Scale (SSRS) to assess levels of social support. RESULTS Overall, 19.5% of fathers and 24.3% of mothers had symptoms of anxiety, but there was no significant difference in the incidence of anxiety between fathers and mothers. However, depression was more common in mothers (50.3%) than in fathers (24.9%). Level of income (β = -2.945, 95% CI: -5.448 to -0.442), worry about the pregnancy (β = 3.404, 95% CI: 1.210 to 5.599) and objective support (β = -0.668, 95% CI: -1.163 to -0.173) were predictors of anxiety in fathers. Worry about the pregnancy (β = 4.022, 95% CI: 1.630 to 6.414), objective support (β = -0.652, 95% CI: -1.229 to -0.075) and maternal depression (β = 0.497, 95% CI: 0.159 to 0.836) were predictors of paternal depression. CONCLUSION Anxiety and depression were prevalent among parents following TOPFA in China, and fathers had similar levels of anxiety as mothers. Strategies to support fathers should consider social support and psychological interaction and draw upon father-inclusive intervention recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiwen Sun
- Department of Nursing, Women's Hospital School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Yuping Hao
- Emergency Department, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jialu Qian
- Department of Nursing, Women's Hospital School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Fang Wang
- Department of Nursing, Women's Hospital School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yaping Sun
- Department of Nursing, Women's Hospital School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaoyan Yu
- Department of Nursing, Women's Hospital School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Fernández-Medina IM, Jiménez-Lasserrotte MDM, Ruíz-Fernández MD, Granero-Molina J, Fernández-Sola C, Hernández-Padilla JM. Milk Donation Following A Perinatal Loss: A Phenomenological Study. J Midwifery Womens Health 2022; 67:463-469. [PMID: 35166428 DOI: 10.1111/jmwh.13342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Perinatal loss is a traumatic event for women with negative consequences for their well-being and mental health. After perinatal loss, some women choose to not suppress lactation and to donate their breast milk. Donating milk can be a grief ritual to cope with the loss. The aim of this study was to explore women's experiences of donating their breast milk following a perinatal loss. METHODS A hermeneutic phenomenology was carried out. Thirteen semistructured interviews were conducted. Data was recorded, transcribed, and categorized into themes and subthemes. RESULTS Two main themes emerged from the data: (1) lactation after loss: a forgotten aspect of the care, with the subthemes "the silence surrounding grieving lactation" and "experiencing lactation amidst a sea of tears"; and (2) milk donation: a resource to alleviate pain and offer hope, with the subthemes "expressing and donating breast milk: a healing ritual" and "breaking the taboo of the grieving lactation." DISCUSSION Information about lactation options is not typically included in participants' care plan. Women's experiences highlight the need for the support of health care professionals. Donating milk helps some women to cope with the loss and accept and integrate it into their daily lives. Milk donation is also an opportunity to educate society about options following a perinatal loss.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - José Granero-Molina
- Department of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Medicine, University of Almería, Almería, Spain.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Temuco, Chile
| | - Cayetano Fernández-Sola
- Department of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Medicine, University of Almería, Almería, Spain.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Temuco, Chile
| | - José Manuel Hernández-Padilla
- Department of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Medicine, University of Almería, Almería, Spain.,Department of Adult, Child and Midwifery, School of Health and Education, Middlesex University, London, United Kingdom
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Complicated Grief After the Loss of a Baby: A Systematic Review About Risk and Protective Factors for Bereaved Women. TRENDS IN PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [PMCID: PMC8747442 DOI: 10.1007/s43076-021-00112-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
This study sought to identify the factors associated with the development and prevention of complicated grief in women who have lost a baby. This is a systematic review of scientific articles in the main mental health databases: MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE, Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS), and APA Databases (PsycINFO). The selection and data extraction processes occurred independently and blindly by two authors, considering the eligibility criteria. The analysis included publications from 2013 to 2021 of observational studies with adult women who had experienced losing a baby (during pregnancy up to 2 years of life) and that employed standardized instruments to evaluate grief. From the 8,200 records found, 23 articles were selected for analysis. As risk factors, we identified the presence of mother’s psychopathology, history of gestational loss, and social pressure for a new pregnancy, while as protective factors, we identified the presence of another child other than the deceased one, the quality of specialized healthcare, and the social support provided by either a partner, community, or spiritual activities. Furthermore, the studies pointed to the event of losing a baby as an opportunity for posttraumatic growth. Although complicated grief is often associated with other mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, or posttraumatic stress, it is necessary to differentiate it for a clearer understanding of the complicated grief as a singular condition, to enable access to appropriate care for bereaved mothers and families, as well as to promote public policies which provide support to them.
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Kaur H, Singh A. Six Thinking Dupatta Skills for Problem Solving: Case Study of Suicide Prevention of Wives in Grief. JOURNAL OF CREATIVITY IN MENTAL HEALTH 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/15401383.2021.2000910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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13
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Köneş MÖ, Yıldız H. The level of grief in women with pregnancy loss: a prospective evaluation of the first three months of perinatal loss. J Psychosom Obstet Gynaecol 2021; 42:346-355. [PMID: 32370579 DOI: 10.1080/0167482x.2020.1759543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To prospectively investigate perinatal grief in women with pregnancy loss. METHODS A total of 215 women (mean (SD) age: 30.7 (5.9) years) who experienced pregnancy loss were included. Data on sociodemographic, marital and obstetric characteristics and Perinatal Grief Scale (PGS) (first 48 h, 1 week, 1 month and 3 months after the loss) were recorded. RESULTS Active grief scores were lower (p ranged < .05 to <.01), while difficulty coping (p < .05 for each) and despair (p < .05 for each) scores were higher in the 3rd month as compared with prior assessments. All PGS scores at the 48 h and 3rd month assessments were significantly higher in assisted and planned pregnancies (p < .01 for each). Maternal age was positively correlated with 48 h active grief (r = 0.19, p < .001), despair (r = 0.13, p < .05) and total PGS (r = 0.13, p < .05) scores. Parity and the number of children were negatively correlated (r ranged from -0.35 to -0.20, p < .01 for each) with all PGS scores. CONCLUSION Our findings revealed decrease in active grief levels, whereas gradual increase in difficulty coping and despair in women with pregnancy loss within the first 3 months of losing a child. Our finding indicate association of older maternal age, primiparity, assisted and planned pregnancies with regular antenatal follow up with higher total PGS scores as well as active grief, difficulty coping and despair scores in women regardless of the time of assessment within 3 months after the pregnancy loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miray Özgür Köneş
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine Hospital, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Hatice Yıldız
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing, Division of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
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14
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Westby CL, Erlandsen AR, Nilsen SA, Visted E, Thimm JC. Depression, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD after stillbirth: a systematic review. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2021; 21:782. [PMID: 34794395 PMCID: PMC8600867 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-021-04254-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This systematic review aimed to provide an updated summary of studies investigating depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in parents after stillbirth (from 20 weeks gestational age until birth). METHODS A literature search was conducted in the databases Web of Science and PsychINFO. Main inclusion criteria were 1) peer-reviewed, quantitative, English-language articles published from 1980; (2) studies investigating depression, anxiety, PTSD, or OCD among parents following stillbirth; and (3) studies defining stillbirth as equal to or after 20 weeks of gestation. RESULTS Thirteen quantitative, peer-reviewed articles were eligible for inclusion. Selected articles investigated depression, anxiety, and PTSD, while no studies on OCD met our inclusion criteria. The majority of studies investigated women, while only two studies included men. The results indicated heightened short- and long-term levels of depression, anxiety, and PTSD in parents after stillbirth compared to those of parents with live birth. Studies investigating predictors found that social support, marital status, negative appraisals, and variables related to care and management after stillbirth affected levels of symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Parents who experience stillbirth have a considerably higher risk of reporting symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTSD compared with parents with live births. More longitudinal studies are needed to increase our knowledge of how symptoms develop over time, and more research on fathers, transgender, non-binary and gender fluid individuals is needed. Research on the association between stillbirth and OCD is also warranted. Knowledge of the severity of anxiety, depression, and PTSD after stillbirth, and predictors associated with symptom severity could provide healthcare professionals with valuable information on how to provide beneficial postpartum care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cèline Lossius Westby
- Centre for Crisis Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Bergen, 5020 Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Andrea Røsberg Erlandsen
- Centre for Crisis Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Bergen, 5020 Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Sondre Aasen Nilsen
- Regional Centre for Child and Youth Mental Health and Child Welfare, NORCE Norwegian Research Centre, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Health Promotion and Development, Faculty of Psychology, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Endre Visted
- Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Jens C Thimm
- Centre for Crisis Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Bergen, 5020 Bergen, Bergen, Norway.
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway.
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15
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Abstract
Diagnosis of a fetal anomaly in pregnancy increases the risk for perinatal mental health difficulties, including anxiety, depression, and traumatic stress among expectant parents. Common emotional challenges include uncertainty about the diagnosis/prognosis, anticipated neonatal course, fears of fetal or neonatal demise, loss of a typical, uncomplicated pregnancy and postpartum course, and disruption of family roles due to medical care-related activities and restrictions. Psychologists in multidisciplinary fetal care centers are uniquely positioned to assess mental health risks and address the needs of expectant parents. Psychologists bring additional expertise in screening and assessment, clinical interventions to promote coping and symptom reduction while preparing for birth and a complicated neonatal course, consultation and effective communication, and programmatic development. This review paper provides an overview of the challenges and behavioral health risks for expectant parents carrying a fetus with a birth defect and the unique role psychologists play to support patients and families within fetal care settings.
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16
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Xu X, Wen J, Skritskaya NA, Zou X, Mauro C, Wang J, Shear MK. Grief-related beliefs in shidu parents with and without prolonged grief disorder: Psychometric properties of a Chinese version of the Typical Beliefs Questionnaire. Clin Psychol Psychother 2021; 29:512-523. [PMID: 34235799 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The Typical Beliefs Questionnaire (TBQ) assesses common grief-related cognitions, which demonstrated satisfactory psychometric properties in a treatment-seeking sample with prolonged grief disorder (PGD). Chinese shidu parents (bereaved parents over the age of 49 who have lost their only child) are at a high risk of PGD. The current study aimed to examine psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the TBQ (TBQ-C) in a community sample of shidu parents with and without PGD, to compare this to the original validation clinical sample in the United States bereaved of any close relationship and to consider its use as a clinical tool. We examined the rate of positive endorsement, factor structure, internal consistency and validity of the TBQ-C in 310 community-based shidu parents (including 102 who met the criteria for PGD). Results showed that the rate of positive endorsement for each item ranged from 7.2% to 48.6% among non-PGD participants and from 20.6% to 92.2% among PGD participants. Confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the original five-factor structure fit both the non-PGD and PGD shidu parents. The TBQ-C showed acceptable internal consistency and satisfactory convergent and concurrent validity in both groups. It had good discriminant validity and can be helpful in distinguishing shidu parents with and without PGD. The TBQ-C can be used to investigate common grief-related beliefs that may be problematic for both shidu parents with and without PGD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Xu
- Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Wen
- Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | | | - Xinyan Zou
- Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Christine Mauro
- Department of Biostatistics, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jianping Wang
- Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - M Katherine Shear
- Center for Complicated Grief, Columbia School of Social Work, New York, NY, USA
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17
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Szuhany KL, Malgaroli M, Miron CD, Simon NM. Prolonged Grief Disorder: Course, Diagnosis, Assessment, and Treatment. FOCUS (AMERICAN PSYCHIATRIC PUBLISHING) 2021; 19:161-172. [PMID: 34690579 PMCID: PMC8475918 DOI: 10.1176/appi.focus.20200052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Losing a loved one is one of life's greatest stressors. Although most bereaved individuals navigate through a period of intense acute grief that lessens with time, approximately 10% will develop a prolonged grief condition. This review provides an overview of the course of grief and describes risk factors for developing prolonged grief disorder. The evolution of the prolonged grief disorder diagnosis, including the latest criteria sets for ICD-11 and DSM-5, as well as common comorbid conditions and differential diagnosis are discussed. Clinically useful self-report and clinician-rated measures for assessing symptom constructs and overall prolonged grief disorder severity, evidence-based psychotherapies (such as complicated grief treatment), as well as evidence about pharmacologic approaches are presented. Finally, the authors discuss important future directions, including a potential increase in prolonged grief disorder cases due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin L Szuhany
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York
| | - Matteo Malgaroli
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York
| | - Carly D Miron
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York
| | - Naomi M Simon
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York
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18
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Grauerholz KR, Berry SN, Capuano RM, Early JM. Uncovering Prolonged Grief Reactions Subsequent to a Reproductive Loss: Implications for the Primary Care Provider. Front Psychol 2021; 12:673050. [PMID: 34054675 PMCID: PMC8149623 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.673050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction There is a paucity of clinical guidelines for the routine assessment of maladaptive reproductive grief reactions in outpatient primary care and OB-GYN settings in the United States. Because of the disenfranchised nature of perinatal grief reactions, many clinicians may be apt to miss or dismiss a grief reaction that was not identified in the perinatal period. A significant number of those experiencing a reproductive loss exhibit signs of anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder. Reproductive losses are typically screened for and recorded numerically as part of a woman’s well-visit intake, yet this process often fails to identify patients emotionally troubled by a prior pregnancy loss. Materials and Methods A summative content analysis of 164 recent website blogs from female participants who self-reported having experienced a miscarriage or abortion in their lifetime was conducted. The narratives were reviewed for details regarding the time span between the pregnancy loss and the composition of the blog post. The stories were analyzed for subsequent relationship problems and detrimental mental health conditions. Maladaptive reactions were contrasted for those that indicated a greater than 12 months’ time-lapse and those who had not. Results More than a third (39.6%) of the women reported in the narrative that at least one year or more had passed since experiencing the miscarriage or abortion. For those women, the median time span between the loss and composing the blog was 4 years with a range of 47 years. Mental health conditions attributed to the reproductive loss by those who reported longer bereavement times included subsequent relationship problems, substance misuse, depression, suicidal ideation, and PTSD. The percent of reported maladaptive issues was more than double (136.9% vs. 63.6%) for those who reported that a year or more had passed since the loss of the pregnancy. Discussion Grief reactions following the loss of a pregnancy may be prolonged or delayed for several months which can contribute to adverse biopsychosocial outcomes. Recognition and treatment of maladaptive grief reactions following a pregnancy loss are critical. Screening methods should be enhanced for clinicians in medical office settings to help identify and expedite the appropriate mental health assistance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shandeigh N Berry
- Life Perspectives, San Diego, CA, United States.,Department of Nursing, College of Arts and Sciences, St. Martin's University, Lacey, WA, United States
| | - Rebecca M Capuano
- Life Perspectives, San Diego, CA, United States.,Blue Ridge Women's Center, Roanoke, VA, United States
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19
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Doering BK, Boelen PA, Eisma MC, Barke A. Validation of a German Version of the Grief Cognitions Questionnaire and Establishment of a Short Form. Front Psychol 2021; 11:620987. [PMID: 33536985 PMCID: PMC7848142 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.620987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Whereas the majority of bereaved persons recover from their grief without professional assistance, a minority develops pathological grief reactions. Etiological models postulate that dysfunctional cognitions may perpetuate such reactions. The Grief Cognitions Questionnaire (GCQ) assesses thoughts after bereavement in nine interrelated domains. A short form (GCQ-SF) with four domains is often used. However, an evaluation of the psychometric properties of the GCQ-SF and its utility compared to the GCQ is lacking and these instruments have not been validated in German. Method German bereaved persons (time since loss 35.3 ± 34.6 months) responded to an online survey containing the GCQ, measures of grief severity, grief rumination, symptoms of depression and anxiety, and optimism and pessimism. 585 participants (18–78 years, 88% women) were included. Item analyses and confirmatory factor analyses were conducted. Correlations between the GCQ and GCQ-SF and grief rumination, optimism and pessimism assessed construct validity. Criterion-related validity was assessed by comparing whether the correlation of the GCQ (and the GCQ-SF) with grief severity was higher than with anxious and depressive symptoms. Logistic regression and receiver-operator characteristics (ROC) compared the questionnaires on their ability to predict probable prolonged grief ‘caseness’ (ICG ≥ 25, time since loss ≥6 months). Results Internal consistencies for both questionnaires were identical and excellent (α = 0.96). Confirmatory factor analyses obtained a satisfactory fit for models with nine and four correlated subscales and respective higher-order factor models. The GCQ and the GCQ-SF correlated higher with grief severity than with other measures of psychopathology. The logistic regression showed a significant association between the GCQ-SF and prolonged grief ‘caseness’. Of the remaining subscales of the GCQ, only one subscale (‘Others’) contributed to the prediction. The ROC analyses showed nearly identical areas under the curve. Conclusion The translated GCQ and GCQ-SF demonstrated very good psychometric properties. The correlations with grief severity highlight the questionnaires’ clinical relevance. The questionnaires possessed identical diagnostic specificity and sensitivity. Whenever a timesaving assessment of the most typical grief-specific cognitions is important, the GCQ-SF represents an alternative to the GCQ. The original GCQ may still be superior when a more detailed description of a bereaved person’s cognitions is desirable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bettina K Doering
- Clinical and Biological Psychology, Catholic University Eichstaett-Ingolstadt, Eichstaett, Germany
| | - Paul A Boelen
- Clinical Psychology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.,ARQ National Psychotrauma Centre, Diemen, Netherlands
| | - Maarten C Eisma
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Experimental Psychopathology, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Antonia Barke
- Clinical and Biological Psychology, Catholic University Eichstaett-Ingolstadt, Eichstaett, Germany
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20
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Faleschini S, Aubuchon O, Champeau L, Matte-Gagné C. History of perinatal loss: A study of psychological outcomes in mothers and fathers after subsequent healthy birth. J Affect Disord 2021; 280:338-344. [PMID: 33221720 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2020.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/07/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The loss of an expected child is a psychologically difficult and potentially traumatic life event. While most women will become pregnant again within a year following the loss, data are limited regarding the mental health of parents with a history of perinatal loss, especially in the period following the birth of a subsequent healthy child. This study, therefore, investigated the relation between perinatal loss and mothers' and fathers' psychological symptoms and parenting stress 6-months after the birth of a healthy child. METHODS A community sample of 92 mother-father dyads living in a Canadian city and having a 6-month-old biological infant were asked to complete questionnaires measuring their history of perinatal losses (55 parents reporting at least one loss) and their psychological symptoms and parenting stress. RESULTS Mothers and fathers who have experienced a perinatal loss reported more psychological symptoms and parenting stress. Mothers were more likely to report psychological symptoms and parenting stress compared to fathers, but the magnitude of the relation between perinatal losses and psychological outcomes were comparable for mothers and fathers. LIMITATIONS Limitations of the study include the use of a small community sample with low generalizability and low levels of psychological symptoms and stress. CONCLUSIONS The results suggest that the experience of a perinatal loss might have negative consequences on the psychological wellbeing of parents even after the birth of a healthy child.
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21
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Xu X, Wen J, Zhou N, Shi G, Tang R, Wang J, Skritskaya NA. Grief and Posttraumatic Growth Among Chinese Bereaved Parents Who Lost Their Only Child: The Moderating Role of Interpersonal Loss. Front Psychol 2020; 11:558313. [PMID: 33162907 PMCID: PMC7581902 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.558313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Losing the only child is considered as the most severe kind of bereavement. It can trigger intense grief symptoms along with loss of psychosocial resources, but meanwhile, it can also lead to posttraumatic growth (PTG). The current study aimed to examine (a) whether a curvilinear relationship exists between grief and PTG and (b) the moderating role of resources-loss among Chinese bereaved parents who lost their only child (shidu parents). Methods: One hundred and ninety-nine shidu parents from five provinces completed the assessment packet covering prolonged grief symptoms and PTG, as well as resource loss. Hierarchical regression analyses were computed to examine the curvilinear relationship and the moderating effect of interpersonal loss and socio-economic loss. Results: There was no significant curvilinear relationship between grief and PTG in shidu parents. Under the high levels of interpersonal loss, shidu parents' PTG scores decreased as the severity of grief increased. However, the socio-economic loss did not show a significant moderating effect. Conclusion: The results of the current study did not show a significant curvilinear relationship between grief and PTG in shidu parents. High levels of grief coupled with high levels of interpersonal loss may interfere with their ability to achieve PTG. Therefore, evaluating degrees of interpersonal loss seems to be an important part of the treatment process when working with shidu parents. To facilitate their adaptation from a positive perspective, helping them maintain existing or develop new interpersonal relationships may be helpful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Xu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Wen
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Ningning Zhou
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Guangyuan Shi
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Renzhihui Tang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Jianping Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Natalia A Skritskaya
- Center for Complicated Grief, Columbia School of Social Work, New York, NY, United States
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22
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Stillbirth and neonatal death are one of the most stressful life events, with negative outcomes for parents. Society does not recognize this type of loss, and parental grieving is particularly complicated and intense. PURPOSE The aim of this study was to describe and understand the experiences of parents in relation to professional and social support following stillbirth and neonatal death. METHODS This was a qualitative study based on Gadamer's hermeneutic phenomenology. Twenty-one semistructured interviews were carried out. Inductive analysis was used to find themes based on the data. RESULTS Twenty-one parents (13 mothers and 8 fathers) from 6 families participated in the study. The analysis identified 2 main themes: (1) "professional care in dealing with parents' grief," with the subthemes "important aspects of professional care," "continuing of pathways of care"; and (2) "effects of social support in parental grief," including the subthemes "the silence that surrounds grieving parents," "family and other children: a key element," and "perinatal loss support groups: a reciprocal help." IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Counseling and support according to parents' requirements by an interdisciplinary team of professionals educated in perinatal loss and ethical family-centered care is needed. A social support system for families is necessary to avoid negative emotional consequences. IMPLICATIONS FOR RESEARCH Further research is needed to analyze midwives' and nurses' experience as facilitators to improve parental grief and the difficulties experienced by the family, other children, and friends of parents with perinatal loss in providing support.
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23
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Skritskaya NA, Mauro C, de la Garza AG, Meichsner F, Lebowitz B, Reynolds CF, Simon NM, Zisook S, Shear MK. Changes in typical beliefs in response to complicated grief treatment. Depress Anxiety 2020; 37:81-89. [PMID: 31804005 PMCID: PMC6952544 DOI: 10.1002/da.22981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Revised: 11/09/2019] [Accepted: 11/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prolonged grief disorder (PGD) is a new diagnosis in the 11th edition of the International Classification of Diseases, estimated to affect 1 in 10 bereaved people and causing significant distress and impairment. Maladaptive thoughts play an important role in PGD. We have previously validated the typical beliefs questionnaire (TBQ), which contains five kinds of thinking commonly seen in PGD: protesting the death, negative thoughts about the world, needing the person, less grief is wrong, and grieving too much. The current paper examines the role of maladaptive cognition as measured by the TBQ in PGD and its change with treatment. METHODS Among participants in a multisite clinical trial including 394 adults, we examined (a) the relationship between maladaptive thoughts at baseline and treatment outcomes, (b) the relationship between maladaptive thoughts and suicidality at baseline and posttreatment, and (c) the effect of treatment with and without complicated grief therapy (CGT) on maladaptive thinking. RESULTS TBQ scores were associated with treatment outcomes and were strongly related to suicidal thinking before and after treatment. TBQ scores showed significantly greater reduction in participants who received CGT with citalopram versus citalopram alone (adjusted mean standard error [SE] difference, -2.45 [0.85]; p = .004) and those who received CGT with placebo versus placebo alone (adjusted mean [SE] difference, -3.44 [0.90]; p < .001). CONCLUSIONS Maladaptive thoughts, as measured by the TBQ, have clinical and research significance for PGD and its treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Christine Mauro
- Department of Biostatistics, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | | | - Franziska Meichsner
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Barry Lebowitz
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego and San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA
| | - Charles F. Reynolds
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Naomi M. Simon
- Department of Psychiatry, NYU Langone Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Sidney Zisook
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego and San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA
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24
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Ravaldi C, Bettiol A, Crescioli G, Lombardi N, Biffino M, Romeo G, Levi M, Bonaiuti R, Vannacci A. Italian translation and validation of the Perinatal Grief Scale. Scand J Caring Sci 2019; 34:684-689. [PMID: 31667868 DOI: 10.1111/scs.12772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 09/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The short version of the Perinatal Grief Scale (PGS) has 33 items of Likert type whose answers vary from 1 (strongly agree) to 5 (strongly disagree), and is used to assess the grief after perinatal loss and to identify women at major need of specific support. This is the first attempt to validate an Italian version of PGS. MATERIALS AND METHODS The English version of PGS by Potvin et al. was translated into Italian by a professional mother tongue English translator. The survey was administered at 3 different times (translated Italian version; original English version after 10 days; and same Italian version after other 10 days) to 16 Italian/English bilingual women who had experienced a perinatal loss. The reproducibility among the three administrations and concordance were assessed using Cronbach's alpha and Cohen's kappa, respectively. RESULTS Considering the PGS, median score ranged from 74.5 (58.5-94.5) to 78 (64-95), with no significant difference among the three questionnaire administrations (p = 0.616). No significant difference emerged among the three administered questionnaires for subscales (p = 0.095, 0.410 and 0.410 for 'active grief' AG, 'difficulty in coping' DC and 'despair' D scores, respectively). Concordance varied from good to very good among all questionnaire administrations. CONCLUSIONS This Italian version of the PGS can be used by clinicians to assess Italian women's responses to stillbirth and perinatal loss, as well as by researchers for research purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Ravaldi
- CiaoLapo Onlus, Charity for Healthy Pregnancy and Perinatal Loss Support, Prato, Italy
| | - Alessandra Bettiol
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Giada Crescioli
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Niccolò Lombardi
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Marco Biffino
- Department of Prevention, Local Health Unit Tuscany Centre, Florence, Italy
| | - Gianpaolo Romeo
- Department of Prevention, Local Health Unit Tuscany Centre, Florence, Italy
| | - Miriam Levi
- Department of Prevention, Local Health Unit Tuscany Centre, Florence, Italy
| | - Roberto Bonaiuti
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Alfredo Vannacci
- CiaoLapo Onlus, Charity for Healthy Pregnancy and Perinatal Loss Support, Prato, Italy.,Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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25
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Shi G, Wen J, Xu X, Zhou N, Wang J, Shi Y, Liu H, Wang J, Stelzer EM. Culture-related grief beliefs of Chinese Shidu parents: Development and psychometric properties of a new scale. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2019; 10:1626075. [PMID: 31303970 PMCID: PMC6609346 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2019.1626075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2019] [Revised: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: In China, parents whose only-child dies and who have no living or adopted child are called Shidu parents. Negative thinking is assumed to contribute to the development of emotional problems in bereavement. Because grief cognitions are likely influenced by the concepts of Chinese traditional culture (e.g., family continuation), Shidu parents may hold specific culture-related grief beliefs about themselves or the world, which, in turn, could impede their recovery. Objective: This study developed a questionnaire assessing the culture-related grief beliefs of Shidu parents and examined its psychometric properties. Methods: This newly developed questionnaire was administered to the combined sample of 313 Shidu parents. Exploratory (n = 164) and confirmatory factor analysis (n = 149) were conducted. Psychometric properties of the questionnaire were evaluated. Results: Exploratory factor analysis revealed three distinct factors (filial piety belief, destiny belief and perceived stigma), generating a nine-item culture-related grief beliefs of Shidu parents questionnaire (CBSQ). Confirmatory factor analysis verified the three-factor structure (χ2(24) = 39.103, p = 0.027, χ2/df = 1.630, CFI = .980, TLI = .970, RMSEA = .065, SRMR = .052). Internal consistency and temporal stability were adequate. Convergent, discriminant and concurrent validity were supported. Conclusions: This study highlights the importance of extending the concept of grief cognitions to include culture-specific beliefs, and provides a first measurement tool to assess culture-related grief beliefs after only-child loss, which can be used in future research with Shidu parents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangyuan Shi
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education (Beijing Normal University), Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Jun Wen
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education (Beijing Normal University), Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Xin Xu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education (Beijing Normal University), Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Ningning Zhou
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education (Beijing Normal University), Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Jiani Wang
- Department of Psychology, Queen’s University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Yuqing Shi
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education (Beijing Normal University), Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Han Liu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education (Beijing Normal University), Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, P. R. China
- Students Affairs Division, Shanxi University, Shanxi, P. R. China
| | - Jianping Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education (Beijing Normal University), Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, P. R. China
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