The Experience of Lesbian Miscarriage: Phenomenological Inquiry

Conservative estimates suggest that miscarriage, an unexpected pregnancy loss prior to the point of fetal viability, occurs in at least 25% of all pregnancies. Studies conducted with heterosexual women and men demonstrate that most individuals experience miscarriage as a stressful event. Few investigators have explored issues related to early family formation among lesbians. Even fewer addressed the issue of early pregnancy loss. This inquiry describes the experience of miscarriage from lesbian couples' perspective. A unique feature of lesbian experience of miscarriage is an overarching feeling of being not in control that is compounded by the difficulties of planning and achieving pregnancy and oftentimes, lack of familial and social support. Findings may serve as a framework for supportive interventions in which lesbian partners feel safe and well supported.