Mother-Infant Bonding Following Previous Perinatal Loss V1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Mother-Infant Bonding Following Previous Perinatal Loss
IRAS ID
347211
Contact name
Anja Wittkowski
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Manchester
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 5 months, 1 days
Research summary
Perinatal loss impacts millions of people annually and can cause emotional and psychological distress for those affected. Experiencing perinatal loss has been found to affect mothers’ experiences of subsequent pregnancies and bonding with an infant born following the loss. Mother-infant bonding is an area of particular importance as it has been found to be essential for promoting a child's growth and development. If there are difficulties with the initial mother-infant bond, research has found that a child's development can be negatively impacted. Therefore, the present study aims to explore the emotional and psychological impact a previous perinatal loss has on mother-infant bonding with the child born following the loss. A secondary aim is to explore women’s potential support needs and preferences in adjusting to their loss and in facilitating this bond. Participants will be recruited via local perinatal loss National Health Service (NHS) settings, third sector organisations (e.g. Sands) and social media. The aims of this qualitative study will be addressed using Reflective Thematic Analysis (RTA; Braun & Clarke, 2006). Data will be collected through one off semi-structured interviews with 12-20 mothers who have previous experience of perinatal loss and subsequently had another baby. Interviews are expected to last 60-90 minutes. It is hoped that knowledge gained can inform clinical practice and psychological support offered to mothers who share this experience.
REC name
North of Scotland Research Ethics Committee 2
REC reference
24/NS/0130
Date of REC Opinion
28 Nov 2024
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion