[A subsequent pregnancy after a termination of pregnancy because of fetal anomaly--all forgotten and a new beginning?].
There is a lack of profound research on the experiences of a new pregnancy following a subsequent late termination of pregnancy (TOP). Results from late pregnancy losses indicate that women do grieve even during a new pregnancy and therefore the process of bonding can be affected. 56 women were investigated within the project "psychosocial counselling in the context of prenatal diagnosis," which recruited 512 patients. Results on the experience of a new pregnancy after late TOP will be presented. In general women experienced a normal level of bereavement 2 years after TOP (PGS), but 11-21% showed significant symptoms of distress (BSI). 50% were aware of the terminated pregnancy furthermore and they felt an emotional distance to their unborn child. This is remarkable because most subsequent pregnancies were planned and desired. Many patients showed feelings of fear, worries and uncertainties. Time since TOP and new conception was not predictive of feelings during pregnancy. If a pregnant woman had a TOP because of fetal anomaly in the preceding pregnancy this should be taken into account during medical care. If symptoms of distress are persisting there is an indication for additional care. The intention is to release the patient and to support a sound relationship between mother and child.
Wollenschein
Melanie
M
Gynäkologische Psychosomatik, Universitätsfrauenklinik Bonn. Melanie.Wollenschein@ukb.uni-bonn.de
Gustke
Matthias
M
Woopen
Christiane
C
Rohde
Anke
A
D000015:Abnormalities, Multiple / Q000523:psychology*; D000025:Abortion, Eugenic / Q000523:psychology*; D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D001007:Anxiety / Q000523:psychology; D003376:Counseling; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006117:Grief; D006801:Humans; D033261:Maternal-Fetal Relations / Q000523:psychology; D011247:Pregnancy / Q000523:psychology*; D011296:Prenatal Diagnosis / Q000523:psychology*