Support Systems and Coping Mechanisms among Mothers After Perinatal Loss in Kitwe District, Zambia

Résumé fourni par la source

Background: Perinatal loss is a significant public health concern. It disrupts the maternal roles and expectations. Parents who have suffered a perinatal loss have reported intense sadness, anxiety, guilt, anger, and experiences of stigma, shame, and marginalisation of their grief. This study aimed to examine the support systems and coping strategies among mothers following perinatal loss in Kitwe District, Zambia. Methods: An interpretive phenomenological design was used. In-depth interviews using a semi structured guide were conducted between January and June 2025 with twelve mothers. Participants were recruited through Kitwe Teaching Hospital and Buchi Clinic. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis and a deductive approach. Results: The study showed that there was stigma and lack of counselling within the healthcare settings. Community norms often discouraged mourning while religious and peer support played a significant role in coping with the loss. Professional help, faith, and self-care were some of the coping mechanisms employed. The spouse emotional disconnection, in-law conflict, and maternal support influenced coping among mothers. Spiritual beliefs and concerns about future fertility shaped acceptance of the loss and recovery experiences. Conclusions: This study highlights the complex relationship of emotional distress, sociocultural barriers, and available support systems in perinatal loss recovery. While religious and peer support were crucial coping resources, the presence of stigma, lack of professional counselling and certain family factors negatively impacted coping. There is need for multi-level interventions and the integration of culturally sensitive professional supportive care into healthcare services and community structures to comprehensively address the needs of bereaved mothers in Zambia.