No Time to Grieve: Losing My Life's Love and Regaining My Own Strength

Abstract

Miscarriage is one of the most common health experiences women (and men) face, and the loss of an unborn child can have far reaching effects on those coping with the loss. The communication surrounding the loss, or impending loss, of a child can affect the psychological and physical well-being of those involved. Unfortunately, some health care providers often do not know how to communicate with patients who are experiencing loss or other traumatic events (Gillotti, Thompson, & McNeilis, 2002), which further supports the need for patients to take an active role in their health care interactions to guide providers and receive the care they need. This case study focuses on the traditional and active patient experiences of one woman seeking “care” from a health care provider during her most difficult time: the loss of an unborn child. This loss, and its communication, were my own.