"Looking for answers": Parent experiences of perinatal autopsy

Death Stud. 2023;47(7):773-783. doi: 10.1080/07481187.2022.2132318. Epub 2022 Oct 14.

Abstract

We aim to understand parents' experiences and satisfaction with perinatal autopsy. Seventeen participants whose babies had an autopsy within the past 3 years completed the survey and seven were interviewed. A mixed methods design was used. "Looking for Answers" was the overall parent perspective of seeking autopsy. Two categories with themes were identified: (1) Experiencing Loss (themes: Personal stories and Emotional responses) and (2) Interacting with the Health Care System (themes: Care received, Communication and Autopsy process). Satisfaction scores with autopsy process were positive; however, participants' stories revealed fragmented care and healthcare communications that contributed to dissatisfaction, complicated grief, and trauma.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Autopsy
  • Emotions
  • Female
  • Grief*
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Parents* / psychology
  • Pregnancy
  • Qualitative Research