Publication
Father’s experience of fetal death: A secondary analysis
McDonough M, Leone-Sheehan D, Kellogg M · Death Studies · 2026
Following a fetal death, fathers have reported feeling a lack of support and minimizing their outward expression of grief. Further, in the period after pregnancy loss, there is evidence that non-birthing parents experience trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, isolation, and hopelessness. The purpose of this secondary analysis is to investigate the lived experience of fathers after a fetal death. Data were analyzed using qualitative description approach and conventional content analysis. Ten fathers from were included in the sample. The major themes were: (1) Through the Father’s Eyes: Perspective Surrounding the Birth, (2) Building a Relationship: Connecting to their Baby, and (3) “Because I’m a Guy”: The Male Experience After a Stillbirth. The father’s experience following a stillbirth is worthy of further investigation to support both parents best. Recognizing the needs of the father can provide further insight into where gaps in postpartum care exist and how to begin to address them. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)
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