Women’s Experiences of Utilizing Religious and Spiritual Beliefs as Coping Resources After Miscarriage

• Main Author: Felicity Agwu Kalu
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2019-03-01
• Series: Religions
• Subjects: miscarriage; pregnancy loss; bereavement; spirituality; spiritual care; coping
• Online Access: http://www.mdpi.com/2077-1444/10/3/185

Religious and spiritual beliefs enable some bereaved women to cope better with the devastating effects of the loss of a baby through miscarriage. The aim of this study is to explore the experiences of women’s utilization of religious and spiritual beliefs as coping resources after miscarriage. Heideggerian interpretive phenomenological approach guided the study. Data were collected using audio-recorded, semi-structured interviews with 10 women and analyzed thematically using the method developed by van Manen. Data analysis revealed three themes: (a) feelings of grief (b) finding meaning in loss and the purpose of life and (c) religious and spiritual beliefs as coping resources. Religious and spiritual beliefs play a major role in the lives of many individuals, and act as coping resources for many women who have experienced a miscarriage. Bereavement care providers’ understanding of religious and spiritual values of women who have experienced a miscarriage is crucial to meeting their spiritual care needs.