Abstract
This systematic review examined the assessment tools, mental health outcomes, supportive resources, and intervention strategies related to women experiencing miscarriage and pregnancy loss. Despite affecting 10-20% of recognized pregnancies, the psychological impact of miscarriage is often overlooked in healthcare settings. Following PRISMA guidelines, 18 studies published between 2010-2021 from diverse international contexts were systematically analyzed. Findings revealed significant mental health consequences, including depression (prevalence 31-48.8%), anxiety (2.4-61%), and PTSD symptoms (14.7-43.9%). Risk factors for adverse outcomes included previous mental health conditions, history of infertility, multiple pregnancy losses, and difficulty finding meaning. Women identified helpful, supportive resources, including internet forums, sensitive healthcare providers, partners and family members, and peer support from others with similar experiences. Various assessment tools were utilized across studies, with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Impact of Event Scale-Revised, and Posttraumatic Growth Inventory being the most common. Several promising interventions emerged from the literature, including internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (showing medium to large effect sizes), supportive care interventions based on Swanson's caring theory, and brief psychological interventions immediately following miscarriage. Implementation challenges included recruitment difficulties, limited resources, inadequate integration of psychological and medical care, and cultural barriers. This review highlights the importance of recognizing miscarriage as a potentially traumatic event with significant mental health implications, implementing appropriate assessment strategies, and developing targeted interventions that consider individual, social, and cultural factors. Future research should focus on developing culturally sensitive interventions, examining long-term psychological outcomes, and improving the integration of emotional support into routine miscarriage care.
Library of Congress Subject Headings
Miscarriage—Psychological aspects; Women—Mental health; Mental health services
Date of Award
2025
School Affiliation
Graduate School of Education and Psychology
Department/Program
Psychology
Degree Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctorate
Faculty Advisor
LaTonya Wood
Recommended Citation
Fakhrai, Hanieh, "Assessment and treatment outcomes of women experiencing miscarriage and pregnancy loss: a systematic review of the literature" (2025). Theses and Dissertations. 1617.
https://digitalcommons.pepperdine.edu/etd/1617