Grieving from the Margins: Black Canadian Men Navigating the Invisible Burden of Perinatal Loss and Masculine Expectations

BackgroundPerinatal loss is a deeply emotional experience that impacts both parents. Yet, much of the literature is skewed toward women to the neglect of Black men whose experiences may be intertwined with masculine expectations.PurposeThe purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of Black Canadian men navigating perinatal loss and masculine expectations.Methods and ProceduresAn exploratory descriptive qualitative design was used, and a semi-structured interview was conducted with thirteen Black men whose partners experienced perinatal loss. Data was analyzed using thematic analysis.ResultsFour key themes capturing the experiences of thirteen Black Canadian men were identified a) responding to unexpected perinatal loss, b) reconciling grief and masculine expectations after perinatal loss, c) contending with a fractured identity after perinatal loss, and d) coping in the face of limited resources after perinatal loss. These themes and their sub-themes highlight the challenges Black Canadian men face navigating perinatal loss in the context of masculine expectations.ConclusionBlack men's experiences of navigating grief after pregnancy are influenced and shaped by masculine expectations as well as cultural norms and beliefs. This study underscores the need for broader and culturally responsive grief support and counseling programs that address the cultural nuances surrounding grief after perinatal loss.