Authors (including presenting author) :
Cheung NLI(1), Hang YY(1), Chan NSR(1), Chan WY(1), Ng SW(1), Wong OLA(1), Leung PH(1), Yan KSB(1), Ip LYL(1)
Affiliation :
(1) Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Princess Margaret Hospital
Introduction :
Grief from pregnancy loss, whether due to abortion or stillbirth, is often experienced as disenfranchised grief, marked by unacknowledged feelings of loss and a lack of social validation. To assist mothers in navigating this emotional turmoil, supportive atmosphere and compassionate healthcare providers are crucial. In contemporary understandings of grief, there is a heartfelt emphasis on bereavement care practices that support parents in connecting with their deceased baby. The Bereavement Cradle, designed to resemble a baby cradle, serves as a meaningful tribute for honoring the baby's memory and fostering a nurturing environment.
Objectives :
1. To create a comforting, nature-inspired space that allows couples to see, hold, and say their final goodbyes to their babies.
2. To facilitate the creation of physical memories for couples in a respectable way.
3. To facilitate staff in supporting bereaved couples with the use of Bereavement Cradle.
Methodology :
The Bereavement Cradle, measuring 26 x 16 x 7 cm, is a thoughtfully designed plastic container covered with a soft bed sheet, developed at the end of 2023. Mothers are gently encouraged to see their aborted or stillborn babies, reassured that their little ones will rest peacefully on the “baby cradle”. The baby is dressed in angelic clothing, wrapped in a cozy quilt, and cradled on a soft pillow before being presented to the mother. The mothers have the autonomy to choose whether to hold their baby, facilitating a personal and meaningful farewell. Throughout this tender process, a compassionate nurse will be staying with the mother or couples to provide emotional support and care.
Result & Outcome :
Results
In 2024, the Acute Grief Support team addressed 58 cases of pregnancy loss. Among these, approximately 40 couples (∼70%) opted to view their baby and utilize a Bereavement Cradle. Evaluating the effectiveness of the Bereavement Cradle presents with challenges. However, mothers and partners were observed to be more inclined to engage with their baby. Couple may initially felt hesitant to see their baby, but the gentle presentation of the baby in angelic clothing within a bereavement cradle could provide them with a sense of comfort and peace, encouraging them to embrace the moment. The cradle was positioned next to the mother, allowing her to hold the baby when she wished, creating a space for emotional relief. Couple tended to hold the baby spontaneously, and nurses can leave them in a private space without interruption, offering emotional support as needed. Staff had positive views about offering Bereavement Cradle. They expressed it facilitated couples to spend time with their baby and encourage them expressing their emotions freely during intimate moments.
Conclusions
The introduction of the Bereavement Cradle enables healthcare providers to foster a warmer, more supportive environment for grieving mothers. This approach encourages mothers and their partners to express their emotions more openly, significantly benefiting their psychological well-being in the long term. Through compassionate care and meaningful rituals, we can help families navigate their grief more effectively.
