Family-Centered Care in the Context of Fetal Abnormality

Abstract

Women confronted with prenatal diagnosis of fetal abnormality face emotionally challenging choice options and considerable uncertainty regarding impact of choice on their families. Prenatal diagnosis of fetal abnormality presents childbearing women with difficult choices, such as continuation of pregnancy with no intervention, abortion, and, in selected cases, experimental fetal therapy. Regardless of their decision, it is a time of transition marked by grief and loss. The experience women and families have with the option chosen has an impact on their short- and long-term well-being. Healthcare providers are paramount in facilitating this transitional time in supporting family needs.