Comparing psychological impacts on male partners after experiencing various types of early pregnancy loss: A systematic literature review

Abstract

Introduction: Early pregnancy loss is still arguably considered primarily a "women's issue"; unfortunately, no acknowledgment of the male partners' involvement. We aim to explore various psychological impacts on male partners after experiencing different types of early pregnancy loss to invite medical practitioners to recognise male partners in the early pregnancy loss process. Methodology: The OVID MEDLINE database was searched from 1946 until August Week 2 of 2020. The Embase database was searched from 1974 until Week 34 of 2020. 2458 papers (1236 from OVID MEDLINE without Revisions; 1222 from Embase) were retrieved, and forty-two (42) papers were accepted. Due to inadequate coverage from both databases on molar and ectopic pregnancies, six (6) from Google Scholar were added, and 48 articles were finalised for further review. Articles were summarised, reviewed qualitatively and themes extracted. Results: Male partners express diverse feelings in different types of early pregnancy loss, such as grief, sadness, depression, anguish, and devastation. However, relief was experienced in some conditions. Different feelings are experienced in specific types of loss. Conclusion: Male partner' emotional responses are often overlooked. Their psychological well-being needs acknowledgment and including them in the process of managing early pregnancy loss.