Coping styles and mental health outcomes in partners who have experienced a perinatal loss: a longitudinal study
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By
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Luke Tarmey
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Jane Iles
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Lydia Poole
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July 14, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Coping Mechanisms and Psychological Effects in Partners Following Perinatal Loss: A Longitudinal Analysis
At a Glance
| Category | Detail |
|---|
| Condition | Perinatal loss |
| Key Mechanisms | Psychological impact on partners, coping strategies, grief and depression symptoms |
| Target Population | Recently bereaved partners (≤6 months post-loss) |
| Care Setting | Psychological support for bereaved partners |
Key Highlights
- 38% of partners displayed moderate-to-severe depression symptoms at follow-up.
- Avoidant coping was associated with higher grief and depression scores.
- Stillbirth, female gender, and younger age correlated with greater psychological distress.
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
- Use Perinatal Grief Scale (PGS) and PHQ-9 for assessing grief and depression symptoms.
Management
- Improve access to psychological support for bereaved partners.
Monitoring & Follow-up
- Track grief trajectories and psychological outcomes over time.
Risks
- Avoidant coping may lead to poorer grief and depression outcomes.
Patient & Prescribing Data
Partners of individuals experiencing perinatal loss
Focus on addressing avoidant coping strategies.
Clinical Best Practices
- Encourage open expression of grief and emotional support.
- Provide tailored support services for male partners.
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