Development of a Manualized Perinatal Bereavement Support Group

Background: Perinatal loss is defined as the loss of an infant through death at any gestation of pregnancy (miscarriage, early loss, stillborn) up to 28 days after birth (Fenstermacher & Hupcey, 2013). Perinatal grief is linked to biosocial factors such as depression, anxiety, substance use, sleep disturbances, and PTSD. Unfortunately, perinatal bereavement support is limited for this specialized population. Local Problem: In 2022, 241 fetal losses (>20 weeks gestation) were reported in the state of Utah. Only two identified local support groups offer a focus on perinatal loss. Methods: An analysis of fetal loss data was collected and reviewed to identify the need for a Caring Connections Perinatal Bereavement support group. A review of current support groups and resources available to Utah parents was also tested. The original evidence-based Caring Connections grief support manualized program was revised and adapted to meet the needs of this specialized bereavement population. The 125-page Perinatal Bereavement Support manualized program was presented to Caring Connections for adoption into their program. Interventions: Creating 8-week grief support sessions explicitly focusing on perinatal loss. Results: The Perinatal Bereavement manual has been adopted into the Caring Connections program. Once revisions and editing are complete, this manual will be reproduced for future participants and facilitators. Developing a Perinatal Bereavement manual to guide facilitators and participants during an 8-week support group can help lessen the burden of managing grief alone. Conclusion: Developing a Perinatal Bereavement Manualized Support Group to guide facilitators and participants during an 8-week support group can help lessen the burden of managing grief.