A groundbreaking study from University College London (UCL) reveals that the language used in healthcare settings to discuss pregnancy loss can significantly intensify the grief and trauma experienced by individuals, affecting their psychological well-being. The report, led by Dr. Beth Malory from UCL’s English Language & Literature department, underscores the importance of language in shaping the experiences of those who have faced pregnancy loss.
This pioneering research involved 339 participants across the UK, including 290 individuals with personal experiences of pregnancy loss and 49 healthcare professionals. Collaborating with national charities Tommy’s and Sands, the UCL team aimed to explore how language influences the experiences of pregnancy loss at all stages and to propose recommendations for mitigating the effects of distressing terminology.
The findings indicate that language profoundly affects individuals’ experiences of loss and their subsequent mental recovery. Currently, there are no standardized processes in place that empower those experiencing pregnancy loss to express or influence their language preferences.
In the UK, over one in six pregnancies ends in loss each year, and for decades, clinicians and advocacy groups have raised concerns about the role of language in shaping these experiences. Participants reported difficulties in understanding communication regarding their care after pregnancy loss, describing it as “frightening” and “confusing.” This challenge is exacerbated for individuals who speak English as a second language.
Terms such as “abortion,” “feticide,” and “termination” were cited as particularly distressing when used to describe medical procedures following the loss of a wanted child. Additionally, terms like “miscarriage” and “incompetent cervix” contributed to feelings of guilt and self-blame. Participants expressed that phrases such as “blighted ovum,” “empty sac,” and “chemical pregnancy” elicited strong negative emotions and implied failure or the non-existence of their baby. Many called for healthcare practitioners to adopt a more flexible approach to accommodate the diverse emotions surrounding pregnancy loss.
One participant reflected, “The language used during my first pregnancy loss was horrific and inappropriate. This led to increased trauma around my loss.”
Notably, this study marks the first empirical examination of terminology related to pregnancy loss in the UK since 2005. Many terms previously identified as inappropriate continue to be used in healthcare settings, as reported by study participants.
The research highlighted some positive practices, such as “reflective listening,” where healthcare providers pay close attention to patients’ words, affirming that they have been heard and understood. However, many participants emphasized the need for mechanisms that allow them to articulate their language preferences officially.
Dr. Beth Malory, the lead author of the study, stated, “These findings illustrate the critical importance of language in pregnancy loss care. The testimonies from participants highlight the long-term impact that language can have on individuals experiencing pregnancy loss. Our evidence clearly indicates steps we can take to improve language during and after these experiences, laying the groundwork for a more compassionate and conscientious approach.”
Dr. Jyotsna Vohra, Director of Research, Programmes and Impact at Tommy’s, commented, “We know from our communities that some words routinely used to describe baby loss can be deeply upsetting. While no language can alleviate the pain, the trauma and grief can be exacerbated by terminology that feels uncaring. We welcome the recommendations in this report and hope they inspire necessary changes.”
Mehali Patel, Research Manager at Sands, added, “Sands has a proud history of amplifying the voices of bereaved parents. We were pleased to facilitate the participation of parents and professionals in this important research, as the way healthcare providers communicate about loss can significantly impact mental and physical well-being. Compassionate communication can help parents understand their loss and may even contribute to safer pregnancies in the future.”
This research emphasizes the urgent need for sensitive, personalized communication in pregnancy loss care, aiming to support bereaved individuals in their healing journey.
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