Development of a pregnancy loss pocket guide for health professionals supporting women and their partners during miscarriage in hospital settings

BackgroundMiscarriage is a common gestational complication with significant emotional and psychological consequences for those affected. Despite the crucial role healthcare professionals (HCPs) play in supporting women and their partners through pregnancy loss, existing research highlights a persistent lack of training and guidance in this area. The Miscarriage and Mental Health Study identified gaps in the emotional support provided to women experiencing miscarriage in hospital settings in Northern Ireland, underscoring the need for targeted educational interventions.MethodologyThis study details the development and implementation of a Pocket Guide (PG) designed to equip HCPs with evidence-based guidance on best practices for providing compassionate care. The PG was informed by qualitative and quantitative data from women who had experienced miscarriage, alongside insights from HCPs. It was structured around key themes identified in the research, including communication, management of miscarriage, hospital environments, and follow-up care. The guide was designed for accessibility in clinical settings, available in both printed and digital formats.ConclusionBy addressing gaps in professional training and fostering improved communication, the Pocket Guide aims to enhance the quality of care provided to women experiencing pregnancy loss. This study contributes to the ongoing discourse on improving miscarriage care, emphasising the necessity of structured educational resources to better support both patients and HCPs. It sets the foundation for future research to explore the impact of such interventions on clinical practice and patient experiences and outcomes.