One foot in-one foot out: Weathering the storm of pregnancy after perinatal loss

Pregnancies after perinatal loss are oftentimes anxiety-laden and lacking i n joy. This may lead to potential negative obstetrical and parenting outcom es. The purpose of this qualitative inquiry was to gain insights into women 's pregnancy after perinatal loss experiences, including major features and helpful provider responses. Thirteen women, at varying points surrounding pregnancy after perinatal loss, participated in either a focus group or int erview. An overall metaphor of "One Fool In-One Foot Out" and seven themes within four contexts emerged from the data. Women found themselves living w ithin the contexts of (a) reliving the past, (b) trying to find a balance i n the present, (c) recognizing their changed reality, and (d) living with w avering expectations. Seven themes characterized their navigation of the pr egnancy: (1) setting the stage, (2) weathering the storm, (3) gauging where I am, (4) honoring each baby, (5) expecting the worst, (6) supporting me w here I am, and (7) realizing how I've changed. Trying to stay balanced is t he major challenge in pregnancy after perinatal loss. (C) 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.