Understanding the Mourning Rituals of Women Who Have Experienced Perinatal Loss

A Qualitative Study

Datos Bibliográficos

ID13629490
AutoresBetül Uncu (0000-0001-7691-6590, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, autor de correspondencia), Feyza Aktaş Reyhan (0000-0002-7927-2361, Department of Midwifery, Kutahya University of Health Sciences, Kutahya, Türkiye), Gülistan Acaban (Department of Midwifery, Agri Ibrahim Cecen University of Health Sciences, Agri, Türkiye)
Año2025
Páginas302228251351225-302228251351225
Fecha de publicación2025-06-24
Peer ReviewedSí
Open AccessSí
TipoARTICLE
RevistaOMEGA - Journal of Death and Dying (JOURNAL)
Identificadores de la revistaISSN: 0030-2228 • E-ISSN: 1541-3764
EditorialSAGE Publishing (PUBLISHER • US)
DOI10.1177/00302228251351225
PMID40553486
OpenAlexW4411582914
IdiomaEN
Citas recibidas1
Referencias citadas30

This qualitative phenomenological study aimed to explore the mourning rituals and meaning-making processes of women who experienced perinatal loss, focusing on how cultural, emotional, and social contexts shape their experiences. Conducted between January-March 2025, the study involved eight women who were interviewed shortly after delivery and again via online platforms after the 42nd postpartum day. Data were collected using a semi-structured interview form and analyzed through content analysis. Three main themes emerged: "Perception of Loss Experience", "Cultural, Religious and Personal Rituals in the Mourning Process" and "Coping Resources and Support Mechanisms". Participants described engaging in traditional rituals such as condolences, prayers, and grave visits, as well as personal rituals like keeping items belonging to their babies. These rituals served as emotional anchors in their grieving process. The findings highlight the critical role of cultural, religious, and personal elements in shaping how women understand and cope with perinatal loss, underlining their importance in emotional healing

Developmental psychology · Psychoanalysis · Qualitative research · Sociology · Anthropology · Counseling, Therapy, and Family Dynamics · Grief, Bereavement, and Mental Health · History · Migration, Health and Trauma · Psychology