The opportunities and challenges of using online social platforms after pregnancy loss: A systematic review of qualitative research

Abstract

Online social platforms (e.g. social media, online forums) can serve as important sources of support for individuals that have experienced pregnancy loss. However, these platforms also pose potential risks to users (including online victimization and misinformation) which can limit their sense of safety online. This paper argues that interdisciplinary work can play a central role in supporting safer online experiences after pregnancy loss. To critically consider implications for future research in this context, we systematically reviewed existing qualitative research investigating online social platform experiences among this population. We present a thematic synthesis of the findings from 28 studies, in which we identify opportunities and challenges experienced by users after pregnancy loss, and techniques that they used to manage these challenges. We then propose a series of recommendations for how future researchers should further examine and address the issues identified in past literature in order to support safer online platform engagement among this population.