Experiences and Coping Mechanisms of Postnatal Women Who Had a Stillbirth in Eastern Uganda: A Descriptive Phenomenological Study.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Stillbirth remains a significant maternal health challenge in Uganda. Despite its emotional and psychological burden, the lived experiences and coping strategies of mothers following a stillbirth remain underexplored. The study explored the experiences and coping mechanisms of postnatal women who had a stillbirth at Kamuli General Hospital, eastern Uganda, to provide data for targeted interventions.

METHODS

A qualitative study using descriptive phenomenology was conducted among thirteen postnatal women selected through purposive sampling who had experienced a stillbirth within the past six months. Data were collected using in-depth face-to-face interviews, while thematic analysis was performed and OpenCode software was used for data organization.

RESULTS

Six major themes, including (I) Cultural and emotional disconnect during mourning and burial practices, (II) Inconsistent and emotionally charged health system interactions. (III) Need for compassionate and competent care, (IV) Sources and dynamics of social support, (V) Faith and personal spiritual practices as inner strength, and (VI) Collective emotional supportive systems emerged. Participants described emotional pain, societal stigma, inadequate mourning rituals, and inconsistent healthcare experiences. Coping strategies included prayer, self-encouragement, and seeking support from family, community, or religious institutions.

CONCLUSION

Women who had a stillbirth at Kamuli General Hospital suffered profound emotional turmoil due to dehumanizing cultural and healthy systems practices. The culture discouraged mourning, which is part of the healing process. Moreover, the health system did not have supportive mechanisms such as psychosocial support for the affected mothers who resorted to spiritual and family mechanisms for resilience. The Ugandan Ministry of Health should design culturally sensitive interventions, encourage compassionate healthcare, and strengthen psychosocial support systems to enhance maternal mental health and recovery following such events.