Midwives’ perceptions of perinatal loss and bereavement care: A metaphor analysis

Abstract

This study explores midwives’ perceptions of bereavement care for women experiencing perinatal loss through metaphor analysis. Perinatal loss is a traumatic event that also affects midwives emotionally and professionally, yet their experiences remain underexplored. Data were collected via an online semi-structured form from Turkish midwives who had previously cared for bereaved women. Using metaphorical expressions, participants conveyed emotional, cognitive, and professional reflections on bereavement care. Metaphors were identified, coded, and grouped into overarching themes. Three themes emerged: Supportive and Positive Role, Emotional Approach, and Challenges and Negatives. Midwives often saw themselves as emotional guides and caregivers, while also reporting burnout, helplessness, and fatigue. These findings highlight the emotional demands placed on midwives and the need for institutional support, training, and standardized guidelines. The study contributes to the limited literature on bereavement midwifery in Turkey and calls for cross-cultural research to advance global understanding of perinatal grief care.