Support program for women suffering grief after termination of pregnancy: A pilot study

Abstract

In this study, we preliminarily examined the effects of the Informational and Emotional Support Program for Women after Pregnancy Termination in 30 Thai women. A literature review and House's theory of social support informed the program content, which consisted of the following elements: (i) an evaluation of grief; (ii) an analysis of the problems and needs of each woman; (iii) informational and emotional support tailored to individual problems and needs; (iv) telephone support; and (v) an exit phone interview. The Grief Questionnaire for Women after Pregnancy Termination was used to measure changes in the grief levels of participants. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the contingency coefficient. At the completion of the study, the participants' average grief score had decreased from the prior grief score and was in the moderate to low range. These preliminary findings indicate that the support program can be effective in real-life situations in Thailand to assist women who are grieving after the termination of pregnancy. Our findings highlight the need for nursing and emotional support to be provided to help Thai women after the TOP. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.