Did you know that approximately 15% of pregnancies do not result in the birth of a child?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO, 2023) and research in the field of gynecology and reproductive health, it is estimated that 10% to 20% of clinically confirmed pregnancies end in miscarriage, with most losses occurring during the first trimester. When including very early, unrecognized pregnancies, this number is even higher (Quenby et al., 2021).
Pregnancy Loss: More Than a Physical Event
For many women (and couples), pregnancy loss is not only a biological event but also a significant emotional and psychological challenge. The experience of perinatal and reproductive psychologists shows that pregnancy loss is one of the most common reasons women seek psychological support (Lang et al., 2011; Hutti et al., 2018).
Research confirms that pregnancy loss can trigger symptoms of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) — not only immediately after the loss but also in the long term, especially in the absence of adequate support (Farren et al., 2016).
Social Narratives and the Additional Burden of Silence
In our culture, pregnancy is often portrayed as a straightforward path to childbirth. These societal expectations can lead to deeper feelings of isolation, guilt, and invisibility when a pregnancy is lost. Due to stigma and a lack of open communication, many women grieve in silence, which can further intensify the psychological consequences (Bellhouse et al., 2019).
Why Is It Important to Talk About This?
✔ Because miscarriages are common, but still a taboo.
✔ Because many women and couples suffer in silence.
✔ Because open conversation fosters psychological healing.
✔ Because professional support can prevent more serious mental health disorders.
References:
Quenby, S. et al. (2021). Miscarriage matters: the epidemiological, physical and psychological burden of early pregnancy loss. The Lancet, 397(10285), 1658–1667.
Farren, J. et al. (2016). Post-traumatic stress, anxiety and depression following miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy: a prospective cohort study. BMJ Open.
Hutti, M.H. et al. (2018). Predicting mental health outcomes in women following perinatal loss. Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic & Neonatal Nursing.
Lang, A. et al. (2011). Perinatal loss and parental grief: the challenge of ambiguity and disenfranchised grief. Omega: Journal of Death and Dying.
Bellhouse, C. et al. (2019). “It was just one of those things”: women's experiences of miscarriage in the UK. BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth.
WHO (2023). Spontaneous abortion – fact sheet. World Health Organization.