Why those suffering miscarriages could benefit from specialized clinics

Bethany Murray, a resident of Whitby, Ontario, experienced two early pregnancy losses last year that left her devastated. The emotional toll of losing two pregnancies took a significant toll on her mental health, and she wishes the process of seeking follow-up care had been smoother.

Last winter, at five weeks pregnant, Murray rushed to the emergency department when she realized she was bleeding heavily. The heartbreaking news that her pregnancy was ending left her reeling. Months later, she and her husband tried again, only to experience another early pregnancy loss during an ultrasound appointment.

Murray described the experience as overwhelming, with feelings of self-blame and guilt creeping in despite knowing that there was nothing she could have done differently. According to the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC), about 15 per cent of pregnancies end before 14 weeks gestation, with some individuals experiencing multiple losses.

The psychological impact of early pregnancy loss, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder, is significant. Dr. Modupe Tunde-Byass, an obstetrician and gynecologist at North York General Hospital, emphasized the need for improved care and support for individuals who have experienced pregnancy loss.

The new guidelines released by SOGC aim to enhance care for patients by establishing early pregnancy assessment clinics, offering free medications for managing miscarriage, reforming mental health screening practices, and providing bereavement counseling and resources for those who have suffered early pregnancy loss.

Murray expressed her support for these recommendations, highlighting the importance of compassionate care and access to support networks for individuals going through similar experiences. She also emphasized the need for separate spaces for women who have experienced pregnancy losses to receive mental health care without being surrounded by pregnant women.

Dr. Lynn Murphy-Kaulbeck, the president of SOGC, emphasized the significance of early pregnancy assessment clinics in providing specialized care for individuals experiencing pregnancy complications. These clinics offer advantages over traditional emergency department settings by providing private, compassionate care tailored to the needs of those going through early pregnancy loss.

Dr. Tunde-Byass introduced a similar clinic at North York General Hospital, emphasizing the importance of consistent and equitable care for individuals in both urban and rural areas. These clinics aim to provide a supportive environment for patients experiencing early pregnancy complications, reducing the long-term impact on mental health.

Overall, the new guidelines from SOGC are designed to improve care for individuals who have experienced early pregnancy loss, addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of the process. By implementing trauma-informed care practices and enhancing mental health screening, healthcare providers can better support individuals like Bethany Murray through this difficult journey.