A meta-ethnography exploring parents' experiences of fetal death and the care they received between diagnosis and birth induction.

Abstract

Introduction: Being notified that the fetus has died in utero is an extremely challenging situation for parents, involving emotional chaos, shock, and despair. Healthcare professionals also find it challenging to cope with these situations. The purpose of this study was to explore parents' experiences of fetal death and the care they received between diagnosis and birth induction.

Methods: We conducted a meta-ethnography in accordance with Noblit and Hare's seven phases and the eMERGe reporting guidance. Literature searches were conducted in CINAHL, MEDLINE, PubMed and PsycInfo in October and November 2022 and updated in August 2024. A PRISMA flowchart was used to illustrate the search process and quality assessment was performed according to CASP.

Results: Seven studies were included in the meta-ethnography. 'Realizing the unreal by taking control of the uncontrollable' emerged as an overarching metaphor through a reciprocal translation of the data. The metaphor illustrated four main themes: 1) Falling into the unknown, 2) Needing care during vulnerable times, 3) Communicating the meaningless, and 4) Navigating the terrain. Receiving the diagnosis resulted in feelings of chaos. However, healthcare providers possessing empathetic communication skills helped them to cope with the situation and prepare for birth.

Conclusions: Optimal care performance, where communication is central, is a useful strategy for healthcare professionals in their encounters with parents who experience fetal death. Training is vital in order to provide good care and support for parents throughout the process.