Bereaved mothers' attitudes regarding autopsy of their stillborn baby
Date
2017-12
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Health and Medical Publishing Group
Abstract
Background. Here we present additional information from the Safe Passage Study, where the effect of alcohol exposure during pregnancy
on sudden infant death syndrome and stillbirth was investigated.
Objective. To explore bereaved mothers’ attitudes toward obtaining an autopsy on their stillborn baby, and the future implications of
consenting or non-consenting to autopsy in retrospect.
Methods. Demographic data was obtained by a questionnaire. A largely qualitative mixed-methods approach was used to meet the
aims of the study, using an exploratory and descriptive research design to provide a detailed description of maternal attitudes. A semistructured
questionnaire based on information from literature and reflections on practice was administered during individual interviews.
Results. We interviewed 25 women who had had a recent stillbirth. The time interval between the time of consenting to autopsy and
completing this study ranged from 6 to 18 months. Most participants reported that autopsy results provided peace of mind and helped
alleviate their feelings of blame. Participants who were unable to comprehend the results reported negative reactions to receiving autopsy
results. The majority of participants were of the opinion that they benefited from consenting to autopsy.
Conclusion. Autopsy and the disclosure of its results generally contribute positively to coping following stillbirth.
Description
CITATION: Human, M., et al. 2017. Bereaved mothers’ attitudes regarding autopsy of their stillborn baby. South African Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 23(1):93-96, doi:10.7196/sajog.1224.
The original publication is available at http://www.sajog.org.za
The original publication is available at http://www.sajog.org.za
Keywords
Infants (Stillborn), Bereavement -- Mothers, Post-mortem examinations, Autopsy
Citation
Human, M., et al. 2017. Bereaved mothers’ attitudes regarding autopsy of their stillborn baby. South African Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 23(1):93-96, doi:10.7196/sajog.1224