Needs of parents during their intrauterine or perinatal child loss – a qualitative multi-method study

BACKGROUND: The loss of a child during pregnancy or birth is a profound and enduring experience that deeply shapes the lives of families. However, little is known about how parents experience the immediate moment of loss, including the diagnosis and medical procedures in the hospital. As a result, there is a lack of guidelines and recommendations for professionals on how to appropriately support affected parents. AIM: To explore the needs of parents during their intrauterine or perinatal child loss. METHODS: We conducted a qualitative multi-method study with world cafés and focus groups in 2025. In this study, 16 German-speaking parents who had lost their child during pregnancy in the last 12 months took part. Data was collected using field notes, photos and audio records. Analysis of data followed an inductive thematic analysis by Braun and Clarke, which was performed by two researchers. FINDINGS: The analysis revealed the three principal themes 'experiencing implications of child loss', 'emerging needs and demands related to child loss' and 'individual strategies to cope with the situation'. The needs were diverse and included the requirement for social support, demands on healthcare professionals and adjustments to administrative processes. In addition, the importance of creating memories with the child was emphasized, as was the need for safety and protection, having time and pausing, and being in control. Finally, the need to be strong, to be involved and to participate was also emphasized, as was understanding one's own situation and overcoming tensions. CONCLUSION: Parents during intrauterine or perinatal child loss show complex needs. These must be addressed to prevent negative consequences. Healthcare professionals are responsible for the course of parents' treatment and linked outcomes. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT06771661, registered on January 13th, 2025.