The Psychosocial Impact of Stillbirth on the Parents

Abstract Background: The experience of stillbirth is complex. It affects the parents and the whole family, affecting their confidence and hesitation about having another baby. Objective: To study the psychosocial impact of stillbirth on the mother and father. Methods: This is a descriptive, cross-sectional, hospital-based prospective study conducted at Elturky Teaching Hospital from March to September 2019. The study sample consisted of 120 women. Data was collected using a questionnaire and analysed using SPSS. Results: anxiety (mild, moderate and severe) was reported in 55(45.8%), 36(30%) and 29(24.2%) of the mothers, respectively, while among fathers these levels were reported in 9(7.5%), 105(87.5%), and 5(5%) respectively. This indicates significant differences with higher severity among mothers than fathers (P value < 0.05). Severe, moderate and mild depression were reported in 66(55%), 45(37.5%) and 9(7.5%) of the mothers, respectively, while among fathers, these levels were reported in 9(7.5%), 21(17.5%), and 90(75%) respectively. This indicates significant differences with higher severity among mothers than husbands (P value < 0.05). Conclusion: stillbirth affects both mother and father, with severe anxiety and depression among mothers than fathers. The level of anxiety and depression was affected by the demographic characteristics.