Anxiety Experiences and Support Needs of Women in Early Pregnancy Following Perinatal Loss: A Qualitative Phenomenological Study.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to explore the anxiety experiences, coping strategies, and support needs of women in early pregnancy following perinatal loss, in order to inform individualized psychological support and continuity of care strategies.

METHODS

A descriptive phenomenological study was conducted using purposive sampling. Sixteen women in early pregnancy following perinatal loss were recruited from Guangdong Women and Children Hospital between December 2025 and April 2026. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using Colaizzi's seven-step phenomenological method, supported by NVivo 15.0 software.

RESULTS

Four themes were identified: the continued presence of previous loss experiences in the current pregnancy; heightened vigilance under uncertainty and its intrusion into daily life; maintaining a fragile balance through reassurance-seeking and boundary control; and expectations for continuous understanding and support during the subsequent pregnancy. These findings indicate that anxiety in early pregnancy following perinatal loss is a persistent and fluctuating process shaped by traumatic memory, uncertainty, active attempts to regain control, and the need for continuous individualized care.

CONCLUSION

Women in early pregnancy following perinatal loss may experience anxiety as a complex, persistent, and fluctuating process. Early pregnancy care should include individualized risk communication, timely recognition of anxiety, early psychological support, and continuity of care. These strategies may help women strengthen their sense of safety and control and support adaptation during a subsequent pregnancy.