START DATE AND DURATION: April 2025 - March 2027
Summary
Early pregnancy loss affects approximately 1 in 6 pregnancies and is often accompanied by mental health difficulties. However, current NHS mental health support for early pregnancy loss remains limited, particularly for individuals from Black, Asian, and LGBTQIA+ communities, who face heightened vulnerability and additional barriers to accessing care.
The Linking Loss study aims to deepen our understanding of the mental health needs of those who have experienced early pregnancy loss. Through surveys and interviews with people affected by pregnancy loss and healthcare professionals, we will gather insights into their experiences and how to help enhance service accessibility. The information collected will inform the co-development of a peer-led support group that is inclusive of various communities. The developed program will be the focus of future research to evaluate its effectiveness is supporting the mental health needs of all individuals affected by early pregnancy loss.
The knowledge gained from this study will be highly beneficial for healthcare services providing support to those who have experienced pregnancy loss. It is hoped that this information will enhance understanding from healthcare professionals and the support offered. The study will closely collaborate with a diverse panel of experts with lived experience of pregnancy loss and various healthcare stakeholders to co-design the intervention, in the hope that the resulting programme will be inclusive and feasible for implementation.