%0 Journal Article
%T Women's Lived Experience of Fetal Death: A Descriptive Phenomenological.
%A Amirshahi M
%A Abdollahimohammad A
%A Shahdadi H
%A Firouzkouhi M
%J Omega (Westport)
%V 0
%N 0
%D 2024 Jun 8
%M 38850164
%F 2.602
%R 10.1177/00302228241261109
%X Pregnancy can be associated with risk factors that may lead to fetal loss, which is a profoundly distressing event impacting the psychological well-being, family dynamics, and overall quality of life of women. The present study aimed to explore women's lived experiences of fetal death. Conducted in 2023, this study employed a descriptive phenomenological approach, utilizing purposeful sampling to interview 12 pregnant women with a history of fetal loss. Data analysis was conducted using the seven-step method of Colaizzi. The study identified five main themes and fifteen sub-themes capturing women's experiences of fetal death. These themes include unfulfilled dreams, transitioning from happiness to grief, varied reactions among individuals, viewing a new healthy baby as a source of renewed hope, and the enduring long-term effects of fetal loss. Fetal death emerges as a deeply painful experience fraught with challenges for affected women. As such, these women require specialized attention from healthcare professionals, particularly midwives, gynecologists, and family specialists.