Psychologic Aspects of Early Pregnancy Loss

Early pregnancy loss is a complicated psychologic event that occurs in 12% to 24% of recognized pregnancies. Women who have experienced miscarriage often have common bereavement reactions and while the intensity and experience of these reactions diminishes over time for most women, a substantial minority will develop long-term psychiatric consequences. Depression, symptoms of anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and posttraumatic stress disorder are the most commonly reported psychologic reactions to miscarriage. The course and impact of these disorders on a grieving mother and her partner are discussed and treatment recommendations are made. The psychologic effects of therapeutic abortion are also be briefly discussed.