Do women's perceptions of care at the time of unexplained stillbirth influence their wishes for management in subsequent pregnancy? An Internet-based empirical study

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study was to examine women's perceptions of their care at the time of unexplained stillbirth, and whether these appear to affect wishes for management in subsequent pregnancy. Methods: An Internet-based survey was conducted of women after unexplained stillbirth, seeking information about their perceptions of management, and their wishes for care in a subsequent pregnancy. Results: One hundred and five completed surveys were included in the study group. Only 18 respondents (17%) reported that the diagnosis was broken in an uncaring way. Twenty respondents (19%) felt 'rushed into making decisions'. Almost all respondents (95%) felt that they were given adequate time with the baby after delivery. Fifty-seven respondents (54%) consented to perinatal autopsy. Most women (93%) wanted additional testing in their next pregnancy, 81% wanted delivery before the due date, but only 26% wanted cesarean delivery next time. Conclusion: Women's perceptions of care at the time of an unexplained stillbirth did not appear to influence their wishes for management in the next pregnancy.