Pictures as mementos after perinatal death: a case study

Abstract

Background: The grieving process following perinatal loss caused by life-limiting conditions presents some particularities associated with the family's culture and the symbolic relationship with the deceased.

Objective: To reflect on the symbolic meaning attributed to mementos, particularly pictures taken immediately after birth.

Method: Case study-a qualitative analysis of the data collected through semidirected interviews.

Results: Of the three women that took part in the study, one woman chose not to take a picture but opted to take home the hat with her son's name on it that was provided as a regular procedure for every birth at the maternity centre. During the interview, she questioned her decision. The two other women took pictures and still look at them affectionate. One of the women keeps the picture of her child in a shrine at home, thus attributing a symbolic religious meaning to the whole experience that alleviates her pain.

Conclusion: The symbolic meaning attributed to pictures of the deceased can help parents process grief.

Keywords: grief; mementos; memory; palliative care; photography.