Lived Experience of Miscarriage From Men's Perspective

This study explores the under-researched topic of men's lived experiences of miscarriage within the Iranian context for the first time. A qualitative descriptive phenomenological approach was employed to explore the lived experiences of fathers following their partner's miscarriage. Seven participants were recruited through purposive sampling and participated in in-depth, semi-structured interviews. Colaizzi's method of analysis, a structured approach to phenomenological research, revealed 7 core themes and 18 sub-themes. These themes highlight the multifaceted nature of men's experiences, including (1) pre-miscarriage paternal factors, (2) challenging farewell, (3) superiority of motherhood, (4) foggy couple interactions, (5) navigating the adjustment path, (6) varied functions and roles of the social network, and (7) turning the page: life after miscarriage. The study found that various factors influence men's lived experiences of miscarriage, including perceptions of fatherhood before pregnancy, attachment to the fetus, coping strategies, facilitators, barriers to adaptation, and the reactions of those around them. Notably, the research underscores the significance of the emotional bond men develop during pregnancy, impacting their grief and sorrow upon loss. Furthermore, this study sheds light on the concept of “invisible grief” experienced by Iranian fathers following miscarriage. This neglect was influenced by both societal expectations and the men's reluctance to acknowledge their grief.