LAUNCH OF THE NORTHERN IRELAND PREGNANCY LOSS RESEARCH AND POLICY NETWORK

In October 2022, we launched the NI Pregnancy Loss Research and Policy Network. Approximately, 50 healthcare practitioners, parents, policymakers, charity representatives and academics. Dr Áine Aventin led attendees in developing the aims and objectives of the Network and Dr Suzanne Heaney presented findings from The Bluebell Study.

The team would like to thank the ESRC IAA for funding support which supported the establishment of the Network and running of network events.

Improving Your Practice in Pregnancy and Baby Loss Workshop for Healthcare Students and Professionals

In October 2022, the team ran an educational workshop on pregnancy loss for 80 attending healthcare professionals and students. A range of perspectives on pregnancy loss were presented by different contributors, including:  

• Healthcare professionals from HSC Trusts
• Lived experience from parents
• Researchers from QUB

The day began with all attendees together in a lecture theatre with a variety of talks, including a presentation of research findings on TFMR and miscarriage in NI, three parents sharing their lived experience of pregnancy loss, including a Q & A session, and discussion on the mental pressure on staff working in this area of care.  Guided by research findings from NI, which highlighted important topics of pregnancy loss care to parents and a gap in training for HSC staff, attendees then had the opportunity for small group breakout rooms focused on these areas.  Sessions were led by experts from practice and research.  Attendees then came back together for a final talk on recurrent pregnancy loss in NI. 

The team would like to thank the Public Health Agency R&D office for funding this event.

Never Say "At Least": Recognising the Real Loss in Miscarriage

Miscarriage and pregnancy loss is a widespread issue effecting 1 in 4 women. Despite this it is an experience that often goes hidden, with limited acknowledgement of the experience and impact of this loss. This talk explores perspectives from psychology, therapy, and personal experience to shine a light on pregnancy loss, and the impact it has on families.

Dr Martin Robinson showcases the work of NIPLRN members (Dr Áine Aventin, Dr Suzanne Heaney, Dr Martina Galeotti) as part of the Northern Ireland Science Festival.