How can I provide appropriate emotional and psychological support to patients post-termination?

Provide clear information and reassurance: Explain to patients what aftercare and follow-up to expect after pregnancy termination, including what to do if they experience any problems and how to access help out of hours.

Normalize emotional responses: Inform patients that it is common to experience a range of emotions following termination, helping to reduce feelings of isolation or stigma.

Offer emotional support and signposting: Advise patients to seek support if needed and provide information on how to access it, including support from family, friends, pastoral care, peer support groups, or professional counselling and psychological interventions.

Ensure availability of emotional support: Providers should be able to offer emotional support directly and inform patients that such support is available if they require it.

Facilitate referral for counselling: If requested, patients should be referred promptly for counselling services to address psychological needs.

Use sensitive communication: Treat patients with dignity and respect, recognizing that individuals respond differently to pregnancy termination, and provide information and support in a sensitive, non-judgmental manner.

Train staff in sensitive communication: Ensure all healthcare and non-clinical staff involved in care are trained to communicate sensitively, including breaking bad news and managing emotional distress.

Maintain privacy and confidentiality: Be aware of patients’ concerns about privacy and confidentiality regarding their termination and ensure information is shared only with those directly involved in their care.