"Early Pregnancy Problem Clinic Attendance"

My partner and I sadly suffered a miscarriage recently and attended the EPPC as requested for a scan and further discussion around the next stages of our loss - medical/surgical management. Unfortunately, during this visit, I felt that staff were not mindful of the situation we were in with joking and inappropriate conversations which did not reflect sensitivity or compassion for our situation. 

I had also requested not to be able to see the screen during my scan which was respected however, this same courtesy was not afforded to my partner who had to sit next to me whilst the scan took place with him sadly watching me cry with full view of the screen for the duration of the scan; his feelings should have also been acknowledged and he felt very distressed throughout our visit.

Afterwards, we went into the consultation room to discuss options with the doctor and then we were given privacy as a couple to come to a decision however, during this time staff members were coming in and out of the consultation room as well as leaving the door wide open and trying to have a laugh. This was very upsetting given that a grieving couple had been left to discuss a very difficult decision with multiple interruptions and also, we could see other patients entering and leaving the EPPC. 

I consider myself a resilient person and understand that it can be a difficult place to work in (EPPC) therefore, staff may want to make light of things as a way of distracting a grieving couple however, I feel that staff need to be very mindful of those entering the EPPC doors especially with the background knowledge of their attendance. My partner and I went in there naturally visibly upset, very quiet and withdrawn and we very much felt that that the staff should have read the room and responded appropriately to our situation. I wanted to share my story for those who may not be as resilient and may not cope as well in the situation we sadly found ourselves in and for staff to understand how we were made to feel.

On a positive note, I attended the Ward the following week for surgery and the staff were just lovely - very supportive and attentive. The staff nurse looking after me sat with me for a while post-op and she listened to me, wiped away my tears and supported me at one of the lowest times in my life which I am very thankful for. You always remember how someone made you feel and compassion and mindfulness can really go a long way.