Pregnancy Loss from the Perspective of Muslim Turkish Women: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Pregnancy is an important period in a woman’s life and the end of this exciting journey with loss causes deep sadness and grief in the mother. Culture is an important factor affecting the individual’s reaction to loss. Many cultures are known to have certain rituals or traditions that provide support and reassurance during the grieving process. The aim of this study was to explore the perceptions of women who experienced pregnancy loss about their cultural beliefs and coping methods related to the mourning period. A qualitative design was used in the study with 21 women. Data were collected by conducting in-depth, semi-structured, face-to-face interviews using a pilot-tested interview guide. Three themes emerged from the qualitative data: (i) cultural reaction to prenatal loss; (ii) religious and spiritual practices; and (iii) coping strategies with prenatal loss. The identification of cultural factors in the bereavement process can guide researchers in the development of measurement tools related to the bereavement process, but more research is needed to reveal women’s perspectives and more cultural practices.