Parental grieving experiences after stillbirth: a thematic synthesis in the context of Latin America

Abstract

Objective: To synthesize qualitative studies on Latin American parents’ grieving experiences after a stillbirth. Method: A systematic qualitative review was conducted in four electronic databases using the Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research (ENTREQ) guideline. The methodological quality of included studies was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme, and a thematic synthesis was performed. Results: One hundred ten studies were found, and four were chosen based on the eligibility criteria. Four themes were identified concerning the experience of parental grieving: impact, suffering, and transformation after fetal death; preoccupation with the deceased baby’s body; dissatisfaction with the quality of health care; and family and religion as the primary sources of support. Conclusion: Stillbirth in Latin America must be explored in future research, and a lack of assistance still marks the grieving process.