Patient Perception Regarding Education and Emotional Support Related to Early Pregnancy Complications and Loss [19F

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Although about 15% of pregnancies end in early loss, to the individual woman, this loss is significant. Physicians are trained to identify abnormal pregnancies but are not formally trained in providing emotional care for patients following this diagnosis. The purpose of this study was to determine whether patients feel they received adequate support after an early miscarriage. METHODS: An anonymous survey utilizing Likert scale type questions was offered to all patients in the pregnancy loss clinic at UF Health between October 2018 and September 2019. After IRB approval, all patients had a pregnancy loss or threatened loss within the first trimester. Survey items measured perceptions of care and support following this diagnosis. RESULTS: A sample of 100 women participated. Nearly all women (90% and higher) reported agreeing to the following statements: I feel I spent enough time with my doctor; I feel my doctor answered all my questions; I feel my doctor did a good job explaining my diagnosis to me; My doctor gave me emotional support today. Forty-two (42%) of women reported feeling that it would be good for them to talk with someone about their feelings (counselor, therapist). Additionally, 54% reported that they would want to see a counselor within the clinic. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that women had positive perceptions of their care within this institution. However, it appears that they felt they would benefit from psychosocial support. In particular, it may be most beneficial to co-locate therapy services with clinics focused on pregnancy loss.