Fundamentals of Midwifery: A Textbook for Students (161 page)

even more challenging to care for and support women and their families when a baby dies. It is important therefore that the theories of grief are understood and that midwives know how and where to access information about cultural and religious issues relating to death and grief and also about support groups (see Box 17.5) both locally and nationally. This chapter has sum- marised some of the key issues and highlighted some of the circumstances that may be encoun- tered in relation to modern midwifery practice. Good communication skills and a caring approach to the women and their families are central to good practice in this area, and gaining knowledge in respect of theory and services can only serve to enhance the care and support provided.

Box 17.5 Contact details for support groups

SANDS

28, Portland Place London W1B 1LY Tel: 020 7436 7940

Helpline: 020 7436 5881

Website: http://www.uk-sands.org/

The Miscarriage Association 17, Wentworth Terrace Wakefield WF1 3QW

Tel: 01924 200795

Helpline: 01924 200799

Website: http://www.miscarriageassociation.org.uk/

Cruse Bereavement Care PO Box 800

Richmond Surrey TW9 1RG

Tel: 020 89399530

Helpline: 0844 4779400

Website: http://www.cruse.org.uk/

Glossary of terms

Is the state of having experienced a loss and is often associated with the period of time following the loss.

Is a natural and personal response to loss and are multidimensional involving emotional, physical, behavioural, cognitive, social and spiritual aspects.

Death during or within a year of pregnancy.

Keepsakes for parents such as foot and hand prints, photographs.

A spontaneous loss of a pregnancy before 20 weeks.

The active and outward expression of grief and contributes to its resolution.

One that occurs within a month of birth.