Men's grief after perinatal loss: A mixed-methods study of recognition, support, and healthcare experiences.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the relationships between perinatal grief, social and professional support, and post-traumatic growth among Israeli men following perinatal loss, and to explore their experiences and support needs.

DESIGN

A mixed-methods cross-sectional study.

SETTING AND

PARTICIPANTS

Forty-eight Israeli men aged 18 years and older who had experienced perinatal loss were recruited through Hebrew-language online support groups and forums.

METHODS

Participants completed an online questionnaire evaluating perinatal grief, perceived social and professional support, and post-traumatic growth. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and Pearson's correlations. Open-ended responses were analysed using conventional content analysis.

RESULTS

Quantitative findings revealed moderate levels of perinatal grief, post-traumatic growth, and perceived support. No significant associations were identified between the primary study variables. Greater grief intensity was correlated with more advanced gestational age at loss and fewer children. Qualitative analysis identified four main themes: loss of the child and imagined future; the landscape of men's grief; social support; and interactions with medical staff. Men described grief as a non-linear and individually timed process influenced by societal expectations, emotional suppression, and a protective orientation toward their partner. Participants emphasised unmet practical and emotional support needs, frequent lack of social recognition, and mixed experiences with healthcare professionals.

CONCLUSIONS

Men experience perinatal loss as a profound and multifaceted event that is often socially and medically overlooked. Recognizing fathers as bereaved parents and addressing their emotional and practical support needs are essential for inclusive perinatal bereavement care.