Maternal experience in the face of perinatal loss and maternity factors that influence this experience

Abstract

Objective: To understand the maternal experience of perinatal grief and identify the factors of motherhood that influence this experience. Methods: This is an integrative literature review based on online consultation of the following databases: LILACS, BDENF, and MEDLINE. Articles published between 2015 and 2025, available in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, and available online in full were included. A total of 15 articles were selected for analysis. Results: The findings showed that the maternal experience of perinatal grief is marked by intense feelings, such as sadness, guilt, and shock, deeply influenced by the way women are welcomed. Structural and care failures in maternity wards, such as the absence of protocols, inadequate communication, and lack of specific spaces, aggravated the suffering. In contrast, humanized practices by professionals, especially nurses, such as skilled listening, recognition of the bond, and emotional support, had a direct impact on the grieving process and reduced trauma. Final considerations: It is concluded that care for perinatal grief, a complex experience involving multiple emotional dimensions, still lacks organization and preparation, which compromises the maternal experience. Therefore, the need to expand institutional strategies that ensure adequate care and safer and more humanized professional practices is reinforced.