The UK COVID-19 Inquiry: Lessons need to be learnt in pregnancy loss care
28th November 2024
The devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on people experiencing pregnancy loss was brought into sharp focus at the conclusion of the healthcare module of the UK COVID-19 Inquiry yesterday (Weds 27th November).
The Miscarriage Association was one of 13 leading pregnancy, birth and early parenting charities who joined together to highlight the often devasting impact of restrictions to care and support throughout 2020 and beyond.
The inquiry shed light on critical issues, such as the isolation faced by patients who had to attend scans and receive devastating news without the support of loved ones due to the strict pandemic restrictions. Many were denied access to adequate care options and experienced prolonged physical and emotional pain as a result.
Vicki Robinson, Chief Executive of The Miscarriage Association, said:
“The impact of decisions made during the pandemic caused significant additional distress and upset at a time when people were already feeling isolated, fearful and vulnerable.
“As well as a reduction in face-to-face care and reduced ability to have partners present when receiving devastating news, many also faced reduced options for management of miscarriage, suffering unnecessary physical and emotional pain.”
Key recommendations from the inquiry include ensuring that lessons learned inform future healthcare responses, prioritising compassionate care for miscarriage, and addressing inequalities in access to services.
Vicki Robinson adds:
“Whilst we can’t change the past, we hope that the lessons learned from this Inquiry will help prevent similar pain and suffering in the future for those experiencing pregnancy loss.”
The M.A and its partner charities, who were represented by Slater and Gordon solicitors, were granted core participant status in the inquiry.
Thank you to the almost 600 people who courageously shared their experiences with us to inform the inquiry and to try to ensure that lessons are learned for the future.
