What recent research tells us about LGBTQ+ experiences of pregnancy and baby loss

At MAMA Academy, we are committed to sharing evidence that helps improve pregnancy care for everyone. A recent open-access study published in Frontiers in Psychiatry brings together existing qualitative research to explore how LGBTQ+ people experience pregnancy loss and baby loss, and what helps or hinders compassionate care.

The study used a qualitative evidence synthesis. This means the researchers did not collect new interviews, but carefully reviewed and combined findings from multiple existing qualitative studies. By doing this, they were able to identify shared themes across many individual experiences, rather than focusing on a single group or setting. This approach is particularly useful when exploring sensitive topics like loss, identity and healthcare interactions.

One of the strongest themes was the way loss can be both deeply personal and shaped by social context. Participants described grief that was just as intense as that experienced by heterosexual, cisgender parents, but often complicated by feelings of invisibility or exclusion. Some felt their parenthood was questioned or minimised, particularly when healthcare systems assumed heterosexual relationships or traditional family structures. This could leave parents feeling they had to explain themselves at a time when they were already emotionally vulnerable.

Another key finding related to how people were recognised, or not recognised, as parents. The language used by healthcare professionals mattered greatly. When staff acknowledged both parents, used correct names and pronouns, and avoided assumptions about gender or roles, parents reported feeling safer and more supported. When this did not happen, it could add an additional layer of distress to an already painful experience.

The study also highlighted gaps in support. Many LGBTQ+ parents felt that bereavement care pathways did not fully reflect their needs. Some avoided seeking further support because they feared discrimination or felt services were “not meant for people like them”. Others described positive experiences where inclusive care made a lasting difference, even when the outcome of the pregnancy could not be changed. Small actions, such as asking open questions rather than making assumptions, were often remembered as moments of care and respect.

For midwives and maternity professionals, the findings reinforce the importance of inclusive, person-centred care. The study does not suggest that LGBTQ+ parents require entirely different care, but rather that they benefit from the same core principles as all families: being listened to, believed, and treated with dignity. Inclusive language, visible signals that services are welcoming, and awareness of diverse family structures can reduce the risk of parents feeling marginalised at a critical time.

For parents and those planning a pregnancy, the research offers reassurance that experiences of loss are valid and deserving of support, regardless of family structure, gender identity or sexuality. It also highlights why many families value services that explicitly state they are inclusive, as this can reduce anxiety about accessing care during pregnancy or after loss.

At MAMA Academy, we believe that safer pregnancy starts with listening to families’ experiences and using evidence to improve care. Research like this helps shine a light on where maternity services can do better, while also recognising the compassionate practice that already exists across the UK. By learning from these findings, we can continue working towards maternity care that is safer, kinder and more inclusive for everyone.