Lived experiences of pregnancy loss at work: Realizing meaningful supports
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Date
2026-04-25
Authors
Hennessy, Marita
Sánchez, Tamara Escañuela
Leitao, Sara
Kelly‐Harrington, Ruadh
O'Sullivan, Maeve
Dalton‐O’Connor, Caroline
Donnelly, Mary
Murray, Claire
Nuzum, Daniel
O'Donoghue, Keelin
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Wiley-Blackwell Publishing Ltd
Published Version
Abstract
There is increased focus on pregnancy loss at work over recent years, with many countries introducing or exploring the introduction of statutory leave for pregnancies that end pre-“viability.” Individual organizations are also introducing their own pregnancy loss policies. However, academic focus on early pregnancy loss at work has lagged behind political discourse and organizational developments. Through analysis of qualitative data from a mixed-methods survey (n = 913) and interviews (n = 13) conducted in Ireland, we explore workers' lived experiences of early pregnancy loss to better understand what supports are needed and contextual factors that can aid the introduction and sustainment of effective interventions. Firstly, we examine the ways in which stigma and hierarchies of loss can shape experiences and available supports. Secondly, we illustrate the value and meaning of legislation and policy as it relates to early pregnancy loss at work. Finally, we discuss practical implications for legislation and policy development and implementation. Workers who experience early pregnancy loss report varied experiences and needs regarding supports within and across workplaces. Attending to factors at individual, organizational, and societal levels is crucial to realize meaningful supports. Importantly, making visible and addressing the inequities surrounding early pregnancy loss experiences in the workplace can be a catalyst for societal change and help to reduce the stigma surrounding early pregnancy loss.
Description
Keywords
Abortion , Employment , Leave , Miscarriage , Reproductive health , Stigma , Work , [INFANT] , [Law] , [Medicine]
Citation
Hennessy, M, Sánchez, T E, Leitao, S, Kelly‐Harrington, R, O'Sullivan, M, Dalton‐O’Connor, C, Donnelly, M, Murray, C, Nuzum, D & O'Donoghue, K 2026, 'Lived experiences of pregnancy loss at work: Realizing meaningful supports', Gender, Work and Organization, vol. 33, no. 5, pp. 1-20. https://doi.org/10.1111/gwao.70165