Effects of Caring, Measurement, and Time on Miscarriage Impact and Women's Well-Being

Abstract

Responses to miscarriage range from relief to devastation, yet there have been no randomized controlled studies that demonstrate significant effects of counseling with women who miscarry. To test the effects of caring-based counseling, measurement, and time on the integration of loss (miscarriage impact) and women's emotional well-being (moods and self-esteem) in the first year after miscarrying. ANCOVA was used in this randomized, longitudinal Solomon four-group experimental investigation. Enrolled were 242; 185 completed. Outcomes included: self-esteem, overall emotional disturbance, anger, depression, anxiety, confusion, overall miscarriage impact, personal significance, devastating event, lost baby, and isolated. During the first year after loss (a) caring was effective in reducing overall emotional disturbance, anger, and depression; and (b) time passing led to increased self-esteem and decreased anxiety, depression, anger, confusion, and personal significance of loss. Caring, measurement, and time had some positive and significant effects on the integration of loss and enhancement of well-being in the first year subsequent to miscarrying.