Experience of hope: An exploratory research with bereaved mothers following perinatal death

Abstract

Problem: The negative implications of perinatal death on mothers' mental health are documented, however little is known about their experience of hope.

Background: Within the broader literature, hope has contributed to better mental health and bereavement adjustment and often bereaved mothers report the importance of hope for the grieving process.

Aim: This study aims to explore bereaved mothers' experience of hope following perinatal death.

Methods: Individual interviews were conducted with 33 mothers having experienced the death of an infant in the perinatal period. Data from the interviews were analysed using thematic analysis.

Findings: The mothers' experience of hope following perinatal loss is organized into three themes: Hope disrupted by perinatal loss; Transformed hope: a new pregnancy challenged by the sense of foreboding of another loss; and Ways to restore and foster hope in life.

Discussion: Although hope has been a motivating force for mothers to reconnect with their life plan and move on after a loss, it is also negatively affected by the experience of perinatal bereavement, social support, and health professionals' clinical practice.

Conclusion: Bereaved mothers have reported a disruption in their experience of hope. While some experience a loss of hope or a sense of hopelessness, others experience a transformation and restoration of hope, which is reinvested in the grieving process. Mothers' experience of hope highlights the need for the support of a healthcare professional and may contribute to enhanced clinical practice through the promotion of bereavement care, considering the aspects that instil, maintain, and interfere with hope.

Keywords: Bereavement; Hope; Hopelessness; Perinatal death; Qualitative research; Women.