Overwhelming and unjust: A qualitative study of fathers' experiences of grief following neonatal death.

Limited research has examined the grief experiences of fathers following neonatal death. Using a qualitative research design, ten fathers were interviewed, and thematic analysis resulted in three overarching themes: 'A complicated grief experience: Neonatal death is highly emotional', 'Grief is multidimensional' and 'Sense of injustice'. Overall, results showed that grief was a multidimensional experience for fathers, with expressions of grief including strong feelings of anger and guilt and the manifestation of grief in physical symptoms. In addition, the findings also indicated a sense of injustice that contributed to the disenfranchisement of grief for fathers. The results of this study contribute to developing a better understanding of the grief that fathers experience following neonatal death, and can inform improvements in healthcare practices after the death of a baby in the neonatal period, including father-specific programs and adequate provision of information.

Australian fathers' experiences of support following neonatal death: a need for better access to diverse support options.

OBJECTIVE: To explore fathers' experiences of support following neonatal death, including the availability and perceived adequacy of support, barriers and facilitators to support and desired support. STUDY DESIGN: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten Australian fathers who had experienced the death of a baby in the neonatal period at least 6 months previously. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS: Two overarching themes were identified: From hospital to home: Continuity of care and Self and community barriers to support. Fathers who could access the support they required found this to be beneficial. Overall, however, supports were perceived as inadequate in variety and availability, with more follow-up support from the hospital desired. Fathers highlighted limited opportunities to form emotional connections with others and a strong desire to talk about their baby. CONCLUSION: Healthcare professionals and support organisations can more effectively assist fathers by increasing the variety of supports available and facilitating follow-up or referrals after hospital discharge.