Your experiences of miscarriage
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Healthwatch County Durham undertook research on people's experiences of miscarriage. They undertook a survey to which 71 people responded.
Emotional impact: Nearly all respondents reported long-term mental or physical effects, including grief, trauma, and anxiety about future pregnancies.
Support gaps: Three-quarters did not feel adequately supported by healthcare professionals. Information was often unclear, and emotional needs were overlooked.
Care environment: Many described distressing experiences, such as waiting alongside expectant parents while facing the loss of their baby.
Communication and choices: Families were not always given clear explanations or time to make decisions about their care.
Positive experiences: Where support felt meaningful, it came from individual staff members showing empathy, rather than from the wider system.